The Ridge 137

My Christmas Ice-cream

A firm favourite with Doody Adams, our general manager, and her family, this icecream is super-easy to make, and can be adapted to include anything you fancy. So clever … and so festive!

• 4 egg whites • 500ml cream • 1 tin condensed milk • 1 tbsp vanilla essence

• candied ginger, chopped • dried cranberries, chopped • pecan nuts, chopped • orange zest

• candied orange slices to garnish

Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold in cream, condensed milk and vanilla. Add ginger, cranberries, pecan nuts and a little orange zest. Fold into ice-cream mixture. Place in freezer. Beat mixture every 2 hours to prevent ice crystals from forming, until frozen solid. Garnish with candied orange slices.

Õ TIS THE SEASON...

Wandering around the shops last weekend, I couldn’t help but notice how upbeat people were. Covid, hopefully, is something that is fading into the past, and with all the set-backs we’ve had to contend with in the last couple of years, it seems as though we, at last, have something positive to look forward to – the festive season and summer holidays.

Christmas is often a time when people reflect on the year gone past and look ahead to the coming year, but I thought I would make my own "’Tis the season" list. Yes, ‘Tis the season to be jolly, but here are my own adaptations …

‘Tis the season to be grateful for my family and friends.

‘Tis the season to share what I have with others.

‘Tis the season to help those who are less privileged than myself.

‘Tis the season to be thankful for my job.

‘Tis the season to look forward to what 2023 holds for me.

‘Tis the season to say “Thank you” more than I normally would.

‘Tis the season to be kind to strangers.

‘Tis the season to share of

your time with those who are lonely.

‘Tis the season to reflect on what this time of year is really all about.

I could go on forever, but I’d run out of space. But give some thought to your own list.

As 2022 draws to a close, thank you to our readers for sharing your thoughts and ideas – they’re always welcome. Thank you also to all our new and long-standing advertisers for your continued support.

From the team at The Ridge, here’s wishing you and your loved ones a happy, safe and blessed festive holiday season.

Until 2023, God bless.

TALK TO US lorna.king@famouspublishing.co.za www.theridgeonline.co.za W Ridge Magazine

TESTIMONIAL

“Opting to take an advertorial in The Ridge magazine has given me the opportunity to share news of developments at Ocean View Montessori School with a fresh audience. From the beginning to seeing my advertorial in print, it has been a great pleasure working with the team at Famous Publishing. They quickly understood my requirements and guided me through the process with warmth and professionalism. The inclusion of the advertorial across their digital platforms widened the reach of an advertising campaign very effectively.” – Lucy Cronje, Ocean View Montessori School

GROUP EDITOR

Doody Adams

EDITOR

Lorna King 078 750 9669

DESIGNER

Stephanie Osborne SALES CONSULTANTS

Lauren Dickerson 072 425 2780

Lauren.Dickerson@famouspublishing.co.za

Nikki Smith 082 898 9483

Nikki.Smith@famouspublishing.co.za

DISTRIBUTION

Mphumzeni Thusi

ACCOUNTS & DISTRIBUTION QUERIES

Meghan Dewet 083 533 5898

ONLINE EDITOR

Sarah Mackintosh

CONTRIBUTORS

Darrel Bristow-Bovey, Cathy Clark, Lee Currie, Aldytha da Silva, Belinda Davies, Christy Ann du Plessis,

is subject to copyright and belongs to Famous Publishing unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material

Copyright: All material in this

be quoted, photocopied,

or

by an electronic system without prior written permission from Famous Publishing.

While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein. Neither do they endorse any products/services advertised herein. Material which appears under ‘Advertorial’ is paid for.

* To the people of uMhlanga, La Lucia, Zimbali, Mount Edgecombe, Ballito, Gateway, La Lucia Mall, the Crescent, the office parks, the residential estates and, of course, all our advertisers, thank you for your continued support

Skin Renewal is one of South Africa’s leading medical aesthetic clinics providing patients with world class technology and cutting edge techniques guided by medical aesthetic doctors and medically trained therapists. Achieve your skin and body goals and give us the opportunity to create a convenient, bespoke plan at any of the three Skin Renewal clinics based in KwaZulu Natal.

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP

TRAIL OF LIGHTS

Until January 2, 2023, don’t forget to visit this year’s Trail of Lights at Durban’s legendary Botanic Gardens – which promises to be bigger, better and brighter than ever.

Festooned with thousands of lights, in the awe-inspiring lighting displays, buzzing with live entertainment, Santa’s Grotto, magical festive characters, charity-hosted Santa’s Workshop, KZN’s

brightest Christmas tree, a special Secret Garden of Lights concealed within the trail, all new horticultural displays and two fabulous food gardens – there’s so much to be happy and joyous about.

From 6pm-9.30pm, December 14-24; December 26-30; January 1-2; tickets available at the door, children two years and younger are free.

IMPOSSIBLE – A NIGHT OF MAGIC & ILLUSION

Fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and touring on cruise ships around the world, Impossible, featuring Brendon Peel’s mind-blowing magic, is finally coming to Durban.

Impossible is a show filled with delightful deceptions, fantastic illusions, and mind-boggling mentalism

that will leave you wondering if the impossible can – for a fleeting moment – be possible. Join Brendon, as he weaves his magic in an entertaining display of unique psychological experiments, classic magic tricks, as well as feats of true impossibility.

December 18-22, 6pm at Bellézar, uMhlanga; R250 per adult and R150 for children under 12.

FOR MORE INFO: To book: www.bellezar.co.za

SPLASHY FEN 2023

The 2023 edition of South Africa’s friendliest festival is set to be another jam-packed, foot-stomping, music-making, friend-finding, nature-discovering, memory-making, soul-filling experience for one and all.

Splashy Fen 2023 promises fans all of the good stuff that they have come to love and long for over the years, and more. Over 300 musicians are lined up for the Easter long weekend next year. In addition to some of the best local music talent South Africa has to offer, a number of international acts will be visiting the Splashy Fen farm once again, for some stellar performances. More details on this exciting line-up will be released early in 2023.

Tickets are selling fast, and with only 6 000 tickets available, get yours now.

FOR MORE INFO: For ticket and accommodation options, go to www.splashyfen.co.za; for any questions, email info@splashyfen.co.za.

LUSTED & LAMB

Sisters Janine and Nicoll share a love for all things art and design. Janine has a background in graphics and art, while Nicoll has a background in fashion and interior decor. Lusted & Lamb has always been a dream of theirs that was put on the backburner, but finally they have taken the next step and combined their creative skills and passion. The sisters explain: “We wanted to create a space where we can explore, inspire and nurture our craft, as well

as fellow creatives; a space with a warm, relaxing and inviting atmosphere, where people can come together to enjoy a coffee, art, decor or sit and read a book. The majority of the products and services will be created by our team. In addition, we want to support, and invite local artists to exhibit and share our space.”

Lusted & Lamb offer interior design packages to suit all budgets and requirements, and products include printed scatter cushions, locally made ornaments and throws, potted plants, large-scale prints, and original art.

FOR MORE INFO: 072 421 9860; email: lusted.lamb@gmail. com; @lustedlamb; Makers’ Yard, 2 School Road, Unit 2, uMhlali.

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER

Put on your best boogie shoes as we take you back to the 70s this New Year’s Eve. Dance your way into 2023 in retro 70s gear and join us for a blast from the past December 31, 7pm at The Pearl Room, Oyster Box Hotel; R2 900 per adult and R1 900 per child under 12 years.

FOR MORE INFO: To book: 031 514 5000; email: restaurants@oysterbox.co.za

School’s sports field. The menu features a wide range of all-day breakfasts, light lunches, vegetarian and vegan meals, salads, burgers, waffles, pancakes and a wonderful bakery selection. All their meat is free-range, and almost everything is made from scratch. Their coffee is one of the best in Ballito and on a hot day nothing beats their ice-cold frappe.

STEPHANIE’S STUDIO@FIT24

Beauty therapist

Stephanie de Winnaar owned a studio in Kloof before moving to Durban North with her family. “I continued to commute to Kloof but then I had my second baby which made things more than a bit chaotic so I decided to set up my salon from home,” recalls Stephanie.

THE ORANGE TREE

The Orange Tree is a beautiful little cafe tucked away in the corner of Makers’ Yard with a shady deck overlooking the uMhlali Prep

They have lots of exciting events lined up for the Christmas holidays, including: pasta-making workshops, gin pairing, kitchen take-overs with some well-known Durban chefs, Christmas table centrepiece floral arranging, art workshops and lots more.

FOR MORE INFO: Dates, prices and booking info on their socials: @theorangetree_sa and @makersyard_sa

Two years later Stephanie “got the itch” to go a little bigger and found premises at Fit24 gym in Durban North spending time designing the rooms herself. The results were stunning – bold, bright colours, quirky furniture, and sunny touches of yellow.

“I wanted to create a sense of space and tranquillity with a unisex appeal. It’s also great for clients who like an ‘all-inone’ venue – gym, salon and even coffee!”

The studio offers basic beauty and more advanced treatments where clients can improve skin problems and

conditions – carbon laser treatment, tattoo removal, microblading and lots more, using top-of-the-range equipment. Hotly popular at the moment is a session in the Stand Up Tan Can – a quicker alternative to roasting under KZN’s harsh summer sun.

“We therapists often acknowledge the fact that there are many salons around but most of us specialise in specific treatments. I completed a somatology course many years ago and am still learning. I would like to learn enough to be able to teach therapists how to become professionals in their field. I have the space now!”

FOR MORE INFO: Stephanie: 066 158 5897; Mon-Fri: 8am7pm; Sat and public holidays: 8am-4pm; stephanies_ studiofit24; W Stephanie’s Studio @Fit24

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP

CONNECT SPACE

How can Connect Space help your business succeed? Here are five facts you need to know going into 2023.

PRODUCTIVITY: One factor that saps productivity is monotony. Monotony isn’t just the work we do, where we work can also be monotonous. Sitting at the same desk with the same view will eventually become boring and affect how engaged we are with our work. In a coworking environment, things are rarely static. Every time you arrive at one of our locations, the sights, sounds, and faces

will all be new. We aim to create environments for people to thrive in – a place to arrive and get down to business.

FLEXIBILITY: Wanting to work a bit later to wrap up something while you’re in the zone? Absolutely. Want to pick the brains of likeminded business people in the common area? Go right ahead. We provide a blank slate for you to paint your masterpiece of a productive day. Our flexible rental options enable you to book a desk for a few hours or a dedicated space for as long as you need it.

COMMUNITY: Co-working

spaces are inherently collaborative, and our goal is to build these collaborative moments and celebrate these connections. So, come prepared to be a part of something bigger than just your to-do list for the day!

TECHNOLOGY: We offer state-of-the-art technology, with high-speed internet and failovers for an uninterrupted work experience, even during load shedding.

COFFEE: This one is

important. We offer premium coffee served by skilled baristas all day long.

Don’t just take our word for it, come visit us and see what our spaces are really like. Find us in Mount Edgecombe, Musgrave and uMhlanga – three vibrant and conveniently placed business centres ready and waiting for you.

FOR MORE INFO: 031 576 0300; www.connectspace.co.za; info@connectspace.co.za

OCEANS MALL a feast of shopping

GEARED FOR ALL TASTES, AND FEATURING A HOST OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL BRANDS, THE WORLD-CLASS OCEANS MALL UMHLANGA IS SET TO TRANSFORM YOUR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

The luxurious and much anticipated Oceans Mall uMhlanga, part of the R4,3-billion mixed-use Oceans uMhlanga Development, recently opened its doors to shoppers, with an astounding 36 000 people visiting on the first day alone – foot traffic that was well beyond expectation –and shoppers leaving having experienced a memorable outing.

The project has created 6 000 jobs during construction and 2 500 permanent jobs, and is classified as a catalytic development by the City of Durban.

The double award-winning, internationally acclaimed development has been recognised for its unique curvilinear architecture at the International Property Awards.

Inside, the 36 000m² mall has attracted top national and international brands, and boasts two large, state-of-the-art anchor tenants – Woolworths and Checkers –while 99% of the mall’s 120 stores are let and are filled with both well-known national and sought-after international brands.

The world-class, first for South Africa, flagship Checkers FreshX will offer customers exclusive private label brands such as Forage & Feast – a premium private label endorsed by South Africa’s

first Michelin star chef, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen – and Simple Truth. It also boasts a Meat Market with free-range chicken and restaurant-quality steak, a Kauai store, a sushi bar, and a Foreign Ground coffee shop.

“The luxurious Checkers is designed in such a way that the various departments look and feel like specialist stores within a store,” says co-developer Vivian Reddy.

TRENDY RESTAURANTS AND FAMILY FRANCHISES

Oceans Mall uMhlanga also offers mouth-watering restaurants – the trendy Tiger’s Milk; renowned signature restaurant, Black; long-established Olive & Oil; plus local franchise favourites such as Spur and Hussar Grill. “We have gone to town with opulent decor matched by a decadent menu,” says Black directors Andrey and Joelene. “We know that Black is destined to impress the senses, and we are catering for everyone, which is why we have included a special VIP section.”

HIGH-END PLATINUM WALK FASHION SECTION

International fashion brands – a first for KZN – will launch in the next phase of the mall opening in March 2023. The luxury Platinum Walk will feature premium international fashion brands such as Dolce

& Gabbana, Burberry and Versace, as well as eight others in the high-end section similar to the popular Diamond Walk of Sandton City.

uMhlanga is known as the playground of the North Coast, and Oceans Mall is positioned as the most aspirational mall in KZN, destined to attract both locals and tourists who flock to the area. The high-end mall will have a positive impact on both the local and regional economy with its job creation and major financial contribution to the city coffers in terms of rates and utilities.

TRANSFORMING THE NORTH OF DURBAN

The mall is designed to cater for all walks of life and will transform the lifestyle of the entire northern region with a unique KZN mall experience.

“Oceans Mall uMhlanga is distinctive and geared for all tastes, including the sophisticated and affluent shopper,” says Vivian. “It’s a world-class offering that is positioned amongst the top three exclusive malls in the country.”

This festive season, the Piazza will display the tallest Christmas tree in South Africa, boasting 186 000 lightbulbs, and will set the tone for a festive shopping extravaganza. The ultimate New Year’s Eve party will be similar to the Balldrop @ Times Square in New York, and Oceans Mall uMhlanga will be transformed with live music and a line-up of entertainment, not forgetting our trendy restaurants.

ItÕsmorethana move,itÕsa GAME CHANGER

OLD MUTUAL IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT ITS PREMISES HAS RELOCATED TO UPPER LEVEL, PARK SQUARE, 20-24 CENTENARY BOULEVARD, UMHLANGA FROM 31 OCTOBER, 2022

After more than 20 years at Torsvale Office Park in La Lucia, customer convenience is at the core of Old Mutual’s move, a move that was inspired by the Premises Re-Imagined Journey, an intentional step to integrate spaces and offer an inclusive and collaborative culture where staff and customers feel a sense of belonging and pride in being at Old Mutual.

The new premises offers a future-fit, technologically advanced and collaborative space for their staff, as well as easier access for clients, promising an improved customer experience. The location is more accessible with ample parking.

One of the benefits of the move is that it will allow for clients to book a meeting room seamlessly, and the customer lounge will elevate clients’ experiences, enhancing their interactions with their adviser.

To remain relevant and future-fit through changing times, Old Mutual always strives to be close to the markets it serves. “We approach our customers as partners. We make sure we understand exactly what their needs, hopes and dreams are when they place their savings and investments with us. Then we work out together with them how we can meet their expectations. This is what we do and have done, year

after year, for generations. By repeatedly demonstrating our 177-year-old purpose – to be a certain friend in uncertain times – through our commitment to supporting customers and stakeholders across Africa, we ensure our brand remains as compelling as it is authentic and credible,” Old Mutual said.

“Our new office space has been redesigned with the goal of helping our customers achieve their goals. Featuring a fresh, modern design and innovative technological advancements, the new offices enable our qualified and professional advisers to meet with you in a space that is comfortable and conducive to creating plans that can help you reach your financial goals. From the reception coffee lounge and informal advice pod, to the more formal advice zone pod, everything is geared towards empowering you achieve your ambitions, with the same degree of commitment and expertise you expect from Old Mutual,” concluded Old Mutual.

Old Mutual Life Assurance Company (SA) Limited is a licensed FSP and Life Insurer.

ABOVE:

TOP: Regional Manager Bhavani Chetty and Provincial General Manager Thamini Sewbran.

Senior Adviser Bassy Bhola.

trees, tables & CHRISTMAS TALK

INTERIOR DESIGNER AND DECORATOR TARRYN HENDRA OF CALLA & TAIA INVITES YOU INTO HER HOME FOR A SNEAK PEAK OF CHRISTMAS HER WAY

If by any chance, you didn’t feel the jingly feeling when you stepped into her space, Tarryn laughs, “I’m completely mad about Christmas! It brings such joy and life into a home.”

Tarryn’s tree, table, as well as cameo spots and experiences she’s created for her two little girls, Calla and Taia, are absolutely delightful. More than simply giving you that Christmas thrill, everything she’s touched is stylish and sophisticated, yet never over the top or … expensive: “I’m the queen of spray paint,” she laughs. “I’m all about repurposing, reusing, recycling, and a bit of crafting too. Wherever I can, I bring in the girls to help me stick, cut and pass opinions on whether I’ve got it right!”

This year, Tarryn thought her colour theme would be Pantone’s colour of the year: “It was a bright purple, but so difficult to source, it eventually morphed into plum. Plum just worked better with the decorations I had.” And Tarryn has decorations – boxes upon boxes of them, most reinvented to the point of being unrecognisable, year after year. “No, I don’t start with a very clear vision, my Christmas decor just evolves.” One suspects that’s part of the joy of it. Play, not work.

Tarryn’s repurposing of decorations is masterly. Out comes the spray can, and that bauble gets a whole new lease on life, as do those garden cuttings: “Use your garden. I chop down grasses or leaves,

story anne schauffer pictures olivia rebecca photography

and leave them to dry out. Once they’re dead dry, I spray them.”

Tarryn ’s also a big fan of buying after Christmas for next year, and buying on sale: “Christmas decorations are expensive, you have to get clever.” She is clever: “That wreath next to my tree was tired and dirty, on sale for R100. I thought, I can fix that.” She’s also a firm supporter of buying local. A number of her decorations are from crafters selling their wares at the roadside, like her grass stars, which she sprays every year. Grass table mats or a grass mat for the floor works well too.

She has loads of advice for decorating the tree: “When I’m on the hunt and find inexpensive, I always buy at least 20 to 30 of the same thing. If you have dozens of different decorations, it ends up as a mishmash. I use lots of decorations – there are about 300 on this tree – but many are the same, which helps your eye to focus.”

Tarryn suggests we don’t get fixated on elements that have the label “Christmas” attached to them: “Your decorations don’t have to be standard Christmas decorations. Either use what you have, and transform it into something for Christmas, or try this.»

Tarryn bought a roll of plum-coloured vinyl, cut rounds and glued them to fit into Mr Price coasters, and added fishing line from which to hang them off the tree. “It’s important to connect your tree and table, without it being matchy-matchy. Pull them together by look and feel, rather than the same elements – I cut up the remaining vinyl into placemats for the table.”

A few hints for the mechanics of

dressing a tree: “My tree is big, yours might be smaller, but the principles are the same. I take a few pieces of string, and tie them around the tree at equal distances, and decorate along those lines. That way, you’ll know they’re level.

At the bottom, start with your bigger, heavier decorations first, and distribute them evenly on your tree, getting smaller as you travel towards the top: “It’s a good

idea to step back and take a picture with your cellphone to see where the negative spaces are, so it’s easier to go back in and fill them.”

Looking at Tarryn’s tree, it’s clear she’s repeated decorations or clusters of decorations, and most are round shapes: “If you have many textures on your tree, rather stick to a similar shape so it doesn’t confuse the eye. You want to create a

cohesive look.”

Just as on the tree, so too on the table: “You want the tree and table to talk to each other, but not directly match – here, round elements on the tree tie in and are reflected on the table. Tarryn bought those round clear balls and filled them with chocolates: “I needed a touch of gold …”

Tarryn always has elements other than traditional decorations, and they’re »

often around greenery or plants, real and not so: “The penny gums on the tree are silk plants, and I break them up and usually spray them; the greenery on the table is from an old plastic Christmas tree – I took off the greenery and broke it up (kept the stem because it might be the tree next year!); and I used dried flowers for decor on the gifts.”

She always has gifts around the tree as part of the decor. She grins, “Sometimes there are little things in there for the girls, usually linked to the advent calendar. But it’s largely to hide the tree base.” She uses monochromatic wrapping paper. It doesn’t have to be Christmas paper – a large roll of Kraft paper, ribbon and the kids stamping stars on it works equally well.

What about Christmas lights? “If you think you have enough lights, double them,” she grins. Another case where, as she puts it, more is more. And don’t use flashing lights if your tree is close to your dinner table, as they can be distracting –nor battery-operated lights which die, rather have them plugged in. She also suggests not buying anything which already has lights on it: “When you want

to spray that little reindeer, you’ll spray over the globes. Rather buy separate string lights, and wrap them around your decorations.”

When Tarryn’s sourcing materials over the year, she looks for certain things: “A

textured ball works well (buy lots) because it adds texture and interest, and you can spray it. You can’t spray a sparkle ball (buy lots), but you can add to it: “Every year, I get a different ribbon and glue it on. Just peel off last year’s.” And whatever

decoration you buy, remove the coloured hanging string and replace with clear gut for uniformity.

Every year, the Hendras have an advent calendar with a difference. First of all, Tarryn makes it, and secondly, very, very few sweets and chocolates: “I made this one with little brown paper bags, and spray-painted some pegs.” Tarryn’s thinking behind the calendar is that children are on school holidays, and selfemployed parents, in particular, are hectic in December: “We needed to find a way to spend time with our children over that period, so the advent calendar is largely scheduled activities, and we put them in our diaries.

So, family things like Movie Night with Popcorn, or Walk on the Beach, or You Choose Supper. They can also be things the children need, like swimming goggles for school, or a paint set to keep them »

busy while we’re out. We also check when we have meetings or events, and we work around those, so Sleepover with Granny is a favourite.” Each year, the first advent calendar window they open is an outing to choose a Christmas decoration – anything they like, but inexpensive. And they decorate their own little tree in their play space.

Tarryn believes firmly that the house should not be overfilled: “For each new toy the girls get, they donate one to charity. So ten new toys, they choose ten to give to less fortunate children.”

Tarryn is clearly passionate about Christmas, and puts an enormous amount of her after-hours time into creating something really special. She’s strong on detail – a soft toy for the girls has a little label embroidered with their names. Inexpensive, but priceless. But style, sophistication and warmth

ABOVE: From left: Vincent Zuma, Ashlea Park, Tarryn Hendra, and Haru Chigadza.

doesn’t need to come at some massive expense – take a (gold) leaf out of Tarryn’s Christmas book. *

FOR MORE INFO

www.callaandtaia.com

callaandtaia W callaandtaia

Vegmo Accessories: Christmas decor, flowers and plants.

The Local Design Lab: Made the placemats.

Loomcraft: Fabric used for placemats and decor.

Colour Domain: Vinyl printing.

GILDED glamour

GLITZ, GLAMOUR, GOLD – ’TIS THE SEASON TO GLOW AND SPARKLE

The festive season is here. Whether you’re wanting to turn heads on Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve, celebrate in style. Add more sparkle … add a touch of glitz and glam to your party look.

Our gorgeous models spent the day in the expert hands of a team of talented local creatives who set about putting together three exceptional festive looks. First stop was a salon styling visit @TerryScott hair fashion where the models were perfectly coiffed in the trusted hands of industry

leader and hairdresser extraordinaire, Terry Scott himself. Terry ensured each model’s hair was styled to best enhance their unique facial features and showcase their natural hair.

Next stop was perfecting their make-up with master make-up artist and owner of Makeup Your Mind, Aldytha da Silva. Aldytha shared her go-to tips and techniques to create a festive make-up look that is sure to leave you looking and feeling “glamorously gilded”. Whether a sprinkle, a dusting, a lacquer or paint, go for gold this season and create a luxurious glamorous glow. »

LEFT: Aldytha da Silva from Makeup Your Mind.

VANESSA KIRSTY MARLINI

PRO TIP – Shadow Blend

I worked with a palette of complementary skin tones on Vanessa’s eyes, lips and cheeks, and focused on creating beautifully blended tones of the same shade to highlight and contour. I added a soft bronze shade and blended this over the inner eyelid and top of cheekbone to add soft highlights.

Vanessa has gorgeous eyebrows, so I used a brown matte eyeshadow and a brow-forming gel to enhance the shape. Using an eyeshadow brushed through the eyebrows results in a very subtle definition. Monotoned make-up looks are understated yet beautiful and enhance facial features in a very subtle manner. Blend a highlighter along the top of the Cupid’s bow to add a highlight to the mouth.

Mark Gold platinum pave set earrings; Mark Gold 18ct white gold heart set with 380 diamonds; Mark Gold diamond tennis bracelet set with 9cts of diamonds; Mark Gold pave set bangle with 450 diamonds in 18ct white gold.

PRO TIP – Layering

I used a trio of golden metallic eyeshadow tones to create this eyecatching reflective eye make-up.

To enhance the effect of the metallic shadow, first use a cream-based shadow on the eyelid. This will boost the reflective quality of the shadow and also help glitter and loose shadows adhere to the eyelid.

For added drama on the eye, extend the lightest shimmer tone on to the inner eye and all the way along under the lower lash line. Blend the mid golden tone outwards to the temple area and add a dusting of shimmer glitter for added sparkle.

This look is complemented with a high-gloss soft metallic lip sheen. Balance this look by using shimmer on the eyes, cheeks and lips for a radiant glow. Mix a small amount of glitter into your lip gloss and add to the middle of your mouth for added sparkle.

Mark Gold modern flower earrings; Mark Gold Embrace pave set bangle with 401 diamonds; Mark Gold diamond sun necklace set with 3cts of diamonds.

PRO TIP – Feature Pop

The classic red lip, red carpet makeup look never goes out of date, and will add a classic groomed chic look to any occasion. The defined eyebrow, winged eyeliner and perfectly defined mouth are the basis of this look. Using a matte eyeshadow to define the brow, a quickdrying liquid liner and matte lipstain will ensure the defined elements are the feature. A golden-bronze trio of eyeshadow was used on the eye. The lightest shade was used along the browbone and on to the inner eye while the midtone was used to create a contour along the socket line. A dusting of sparkle shimmer was added to the middle of the eyelid to create a reflective highlight, while lash clusters were added to the outer corner of the eye to emphasise a winged eye.

Mark Gold classic pave set flower earrings; Mark Gold Colori ring; Mark Gold Embrace pave set bangle with 678 diamonds; Mark Gold Cabochon cut tanzanite and diamond ring.

Completing the gilded glamour look, we turned to the striking designs from Zarth Designs. Our models were dressed in this luxury brand, each garment distinguished by its stylistic originality combined with bespoke designer creativity. Ornate, intricate, embellished, each creation expresses ultimate glamour. This really is the season to shine.

Completing our gorgeous model make-overs are the exquisitely crafted jewellery pieces from Mark Gold Jewellers.

The mood was glitz and glam, and the sparkly smiles were proof enough that the models felt and looked ready for the festive holiday season. Thanks to The Smile Bar for treating the models to a teeth whitening session as well as creating the perfect setting for our shoot. *

Scan the QR code to take a look behind the scenes and watch how the team created these beautiful images.

make-up Aldytha da Silva @makeupyourmind_sa hair Terry @terryscotthairfashion clothing Zarth @zarth_designs jewellery Mark Gold @markgold_031 (Enquiries: Dean 082 922 2100) models Vanessa Marawa, Marlini Govender, Kirsty Motzouris photographer JoNo Nienaber @purestudio assistant Lucky Matiyela location The Smile Bar, La Lucia Mall @thesmilebar_sa

festivefunfor FAMILIES

It’s time to shop, snap, wrap and make magical memories as Gateway Theatre of Shopping transforms into a festive wonderland, all decked out to delight families, friends, shoppers and holidaymakers.

“Last year we went all-in, and the response was phenomenal. This year we’ve added even more fun and festivity,” says Michelle Shelley, Gateway’s Marketing Manager.

Picture-perfect festive installations located throughout the mall are a “must-visit” for anyone sharing the joyful seasonal spirit. Visitors can measure up to SA’s largest bauble on the ground floor outside Truworths; send off your Christmas wish list at Santa’s Post Office outside Steve Madden; join the Teddy Toybox party near Ted Baker; head for a romantic interlude of Jolly Wishes and Nutcracker Kisses near the Adidas store, and stop for a snap Under the Mistletoe outside @home.

PICTURE-PERFECT POSTCARDS

‘Tis also the season to up your festive feed on social media. Six of the best festive photo booths will have you surrounded by snow one minute and peeking through ravishing ribbons the next. Style your pics with a timeless red

‘TIS THE SEASON TO SPARKLE AS GATEWAY TRANSFORMS INTO A FESTIVE WONDERLAND

and white Santa or choose the striking stripes of sweet candy sticks as props for your perfect shot.

“Visitors can expect a completely different snow globe this year,” says Michelle. “We’ve had such fun with World of Illusions and then the Bloom Room booths on the Entertainment level, and now have added some festive magic to the area. Summer holidays are always special, and this year’s awesome line-up takes inspiration from holiday postcards,” says Michelle.

ACTION-PACKED MUSEUM

Not an ordinary museum, the Museum of Memories is an abundance of interactive stations for kids, teens and adults. Situated at Expo Explore, the activity-based “museum” recalls fun times at the mall as part of its ongoing 21st birthday celebrations.

Kids (and in some places, adults) can “surf” on an inflatable wave, balance on a hanging skateboard and whizz down into a bath of balls. Trendy teens will want to pose at the black-and-white

line-drawn fashion cafe.

The grand finale is the Gateway to the Galaxy, an audio-visual blast into space surrounded by visuals including the latest images from NASA’s James Webb space telescope.

“We have kept the museum up for the thousands of seasonal visitors to enjoy a fun throwback to the mall’s early days.”

From our family to yours – Disney’s bringing their Chari-tree to Gateway once again. A towering 8m high tree full of generosity – visitors can make a cash donation towards the purchase of a Disney plush character and both the plush and the money will help Reach for a Dream make a child’s dream come true.

Giving back to the community and saving wrapping presents at home, the wish-granting charity will also have a gift-wrapping station set up in the mall, opposite Starbucks.

FOR MORE INFO From December 16-23 the mall will be open from 9am to 10pm, and close at 9pm on Christmas Eve, as well as from December 26-30. Please see Gateway’s social media, or www.gatewayworld.co.za for updates.

WRAPPED inlove

Think of the festive season –beautiful Christmas decorations, twinkling lights, the fun of shopping for the perfect Christmas gifts, Christmas carols, mouth-watering desserts … and of course, wrapping pressies. Look at the gifts under most Christmas trees and you’ll find works of art with perfectly folded corners and exquisitely tied bows, and then pressies

held together with blobs of glue and paper-thin wrapping paper. No joy there!

uMhlanga interior designer Lisa Walters-Hunter has mastered the art of gift wrapping, and shares her thoughts and tips with us.

“For me, gift wrapping and the thought and time I put into packaging a gift should have the same amount of effort as the time I spent selecting the gift. It’s the first impression –and I like that impression to be a lasting one.”

If you’re not particularly creative, it can be hard to know the best, most effective ways to wrap presents. “There are a ton of gorgeous options out there, but I stick with my firm favourite ideas year in and year out,” says Lisa.

• I love to layer ribbons.

• I mix wrapping paper and gift tags, then embellish and decorate the gifts with goodies to personalise them, and if need be, jazz them up.

• I also like to use beautiful boxes to place gifts in, which

means the recipient can use the box afterwards.

• I like to keep to a colour palette – this festive season I have used black, cream and gold.

• Depending on the recipient, let your imagination run wild, be creative, mix clashing patterns and textures.

Find my style: I sourced the wrapping and ribbons from the following suppliers: Star wrapping paper – Value Co, Cornubia Centre; Various ribbons – Vegmoflora Decor and uMhlanga SuperSpar Decor Division; Black boxes – Value Co and uMhlanga SuperSpar Decor Division; Ticking stripe collapsible gift box – Typo; Christmas ornaments on gifts – H&M Home, Gateway, uMhlanga SuperSpar Decor Division, and Mr Price Home; Christmas gift tags and gold deer stickers –Woolworths; Gold scissors –Poetry. *

BELOW: Lisa Walters-Hunter.

giftsfromthe KITCHEN

EASY TO MAKE, SIMPLE TO BOTTLE OR BOX, TRIM WITH RIBBON AND A TAG. ANT ELLIS SHARES SIX DELICIOUS FESTIVE GIFTS THAT WILL BRING JOY IN EVERY MOUTHFUL

EasyLimoncello

A delightful cure for any all-too-silent night is an ice-cold, sharp and citrussy drinkiepoo. It’s hard to say whether traditional limoncello includes the juice of lemons as well as the beautifully aromatic skin, but I like it. Give yourself a couple of weeks to infuse as much lemony flavour as possible.

• 8 large lemons, preferably unwaxed

• 750ml vodka

• 1 cup white sugar

• 1½ cups water

Peel skin off lemons with a peeler avoiding any pith, and add to a closable glass jar or bottle with the juice of half the lemons – no seeds. Add vodka and close the jar, now store in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks (the longer the better). Very important is that each and every day, you shake or agitate the bottle to really get all the flavour from the lemon peel. After at least two weeks, prepare a simple syrup by bringing the sugar and water to the boil, simmer until the sugar has dissolved, then allow to cool. Fine-strain your lemon-vodka mix into another container and add syrup, and stir thoroughly. Now bottle and refrigerate, although for my money, this is always best coming out of the freezer on a hot summer night.

chilli/sundried tomatoes back, but if you’re making garlic oil, don’t add the garlic back – discard it.

Pro tips: Store in the fridge. At low temperature, your oil may solidify and turn opaque – just leave it at room temperature for an hour to loosen up.

InfusedOliveOils

These work great as a drizzle, a dip for warm, crusty bread, and in making pasta sauces and even baking bread – maximum flavour, very little hard work. An important note here is that as we’re not using a preservative, these oils should be used within a couple of weeks – make sure to pass that fact on with your gift.

• 2 cups extra-virgin olive oil

Your choice of infusions: Rosemary sprigs, lemon peel, chillies sliced lengthways, whole garlic cloves, sundried tomatoes or dried herbs of your choice –in any combination you like.

Add oil to a medium pot with infusion ingredients. Warm over low heat for 15-20 minutes. Do not bring to full heat, boiling or smoking point – it will instantly turn bitter – just keep it low, you’ll smell the amazing aromas as the infusion happens. Cool completely and then strain into bottles with a funnel. Add your sprig of rosemary/sliced

PickledVegetables

Not only is pickling the most delicious way to preserve almost any vegetable, it’s much easier to do than you think. Home-made pickles should be brighter, more tangy and acidic than bought ones, and should be fresh and really punchy. Package in a nice jar and give ’em away with strict instructions to eat with everything.

Basic pickling brine

• 1½ cups of vinegar: Distilled white, apple cider or white wine are your best place to start

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon salt

Vegetables: I love carrots or red and yellow peppers cut into spears, sliced red onion, jalapeno peppers sliced into rounds – but also try baby cucumbers, green beans or any other veg or fruit you like.

Aromatics: Whole peppercorns, red chilli flakes, mustard seed, coriander seed, peeled garlic cloves, bay-leaf. You need only smallish quantities of these. For example, for one batch of pickling brine (above), use only 12-15 peppercorns, 1 teaspoon of mustard/coriander seeds, cloves of garlic.

Fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage.

Prep clean jars and fill with your choice of vegetables cut into snackable slices, leaving a gap at the top for liquid. In a small

ABOVE: “Merry Christmas to one and all. I hope this festive holiday season is one to remember with your loved ones. May we meet again next year feeling safe, happy and full, and slightly hungover” – Ant Ellis.

to medium pot, add brine ingredients and your choice of aromatics. Bring to the boil. Simmer for about 1 minute, stirring to ensure salt is dissolved, then take off the heat and pour into jars over your veggies. Cool to room temperature, screw on the lids and refrigerate. They’ll be at their very best after a couple of weeks, and will keep for months.

Pro tips: Stick to one veggie per jar. Also, to keep the veggies submerged in the brine before refrigerating, add a folded piece of paper towel in the top of the jar, remove when cooled and then screw the lid on.

round, roll the truffles in your toppings –cocoa powder, sprinkles, nuts, coconut, powdered sugar, or do a few of each. Set on a baking paper-lined plate, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

For super-charged truffles: Stir 1 teaspoon of instant coffee, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, 5ml of orange essence, rum, amaretto, bourbon or Kahlua into the chocolate mix before cooling.

Pro tip: Slightly dampen your hands with cold water before rolling the balls. If it’s melting, keep your hands cold and roll them in small batches, keeping the tray in the fridge between batches.

Traditional Scottish Shortbread

O come all ye faithful gobblers, you’re getting shortbread in your Christmas stocking. Yes please. But it’s not just your grandma’s favourite cookie, it’s beloved worldwide and for good reason. Shortbread is delicious, easy, reliable and also pretty versatile, and actually super cost-effective. Make double, keep half for yourself.

• 240g cake wheat flour

• 230g salted butter, cubed and softened at room temperature

• 120g castor sugar plus extra for dusting (icing sugar is also good for dusting)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Chocolate Truffles

They’re delicate and decadent, and when you make them yourself, you can flavour them however you like, inside and out. Roll the little blighters in just about anything and scoff them after lunch with a coffee and my Boozy Cream Liqueur (recipe follows). Then take a nap.

• 250g chocolate, 50-60% cocoa

• ½ cup fresh cream or full cream coconut milk

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

Toppings: Crushed walnuts, pistachios, almonds or peanuts, chocolate sprinkles, hundreds and thousands, chocolate or cocoa powder, desiccated coconut, icing sugar.

Chop chocolate quite finely for more even melting, and add to a mixing bowl. Heat cream or coconut milk until it just begins to boil. Pour over chocolate, add vanilla extract and stir until creamy and chocolate has melted, then smooth out on a shallow flat dish. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm enough to scoop, then roll gently into balls with your hands. They should be a maximum of 2 bites, so no bigger than 30mm in diameter. Once

Boozy Cream Liqueur

In the spirit of the Irish, this easy to make recipe is a creamy, dreamy delight and works with a variety of your favourite liquors. Serve it for sipping, as shots, over ice, or just stick a straw in the bottle and go for it.

• 250ml fresh cream

• 1 x 385g can sweetened condensed milk

• 3 tablespoons melted chocolate, chocolate sauce or syrup (optional)

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 400ml booze – whiskey, spiced rum, bourbon or whatever your favourite tipple

To your mixer or blender, add cream, condensed milk, instant coffee granules, chocolate in whichever form, and vanilla, and mix on low speed for 30 seconds –don’t overmix or the cream may split. With the mixer going at a very slow speed, add booze and let it mix in thoroughly. Transfer to glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and refrigerate for up to 2 months. Shake well before using.

Preheat oven to 180ºC and grease a baking sheet with soft butter or cooking spray. In a mixing bowl or food processor, add flour, castor sugar, butter and vanilla extract and pulse until combined, and the texture resembles coarse breadcrumbs that form a dough when pressed together. If it’s too dry and crumbly, pulse a bit longer – too wet, add a touch more flour and pulse. Turn the mixture out on to greased baking pan, and using lightly floured fingers and hands, firmly press and push out the mixture to a firm, even layer, ideally about 1cm thick. Very important: Before baking, use a fork or docking tool to prick or dock the mixture evenly and plentifully. Bake for about 25 minutes, until firm, golden and slightly browned at the edges, then remove tray and cool. I like to cut it while it’s still warm so it doesn’t crumble too much. Dust with icing or castor sugar and when fully cooled, wrap into gifting parcels and store in a sealed container.

Pro tips: Add chopped almonds, walnuts or peanuts, dried cranberries, finely chopped apricots or chocolate chips to the mixture before pressing into the baking pan. *

THESLEEP HOUSE

So comfortable and versatile –whether you are looking to treat yourself or someone else, this nightshirt is the perfect gift. Want a little around-the-house coverage?

Slip into our nightshirt – it’s casual, baggy with loads of chic. Featuring long sleeves, one pocket, a fold-over collar, and a button-down and curved side hem for easy movement, so you can dance around your living room. It’s a classic signature must-have!

FOR MORE INFO: www. thesleephouse.co.za; orders@ thesleephouse.co.za; @alsleepwear

lastminute

IDEAS

THESMILEBAR

This festive season treat the special person in your life to a teeth whitening voucher – a gift that will literally make them smile.

FOR MORE INFO: Visit us at La Lucia Mall, or call us on 031 572 2254

ESSELIMITED-EDITION FESTIVEGIFTPACK

Esse’s Limited-Edition Festive Gift Set features a Body Cleanser and two Sensitive Face Masks packed with hyaluronic acid and postbiotics. This makes the ideal gift for all women (and men) as it’s perfectly suited to all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Get the set free-of-charge when you spend R1 950 on Esse’s product

www.esseskincare.com/concept-store/

safest SAFE

Vaults was born.

But where do you locate a business like this?

Consider a place situated on a standalone site, with only one way in and one way out. It is a place with exceptionally strong and state-of-the-art security 24/7. The answer? A casino.

The company signed a 20-year lease to house Capital Vaults in the Sibaya casino complex. The company won’t divulge where in the complex they are housed, but create a mental picture of a vault with impenetrable thick steel walls somewhere in the concrete reinforced basement. It has a three-phase physical entrance and an ingeniously engineered access system.

In South Africa, and KwaZulu-Natal especially, everyone knows someone who has been a victim of crime.

People know they have to keep irreplaceable family heirlooms, jewels, cash, Krugerrands and important documentation away from home or business premises because this creates a target for smart and violent criminals.

No one wants to put their family or their colleagues at risk, but we worry about safeguarding vital valuables. The question is where to keep these safe?

Durban entrepreneur, Theo Moodley, created Capital Vaults to respond to this challenge in a world beset by insecurity. He and angel investors have spent a small fortune creating the “safer safety deposit box”.

Theo is a chartered accountant with investments in a host of businesses. Three years ago he set about de-risking his house and realised how perilously vulnerable our homes can be and why it made supreme sense to get the valuables away from us.

VAULT

Theo looked around for somewhere to store his valuables, but nothing measured up to his standards. The banks don’t offer safety deposit boxes because of the risks associated with them. And so Capital

INGENUITY

In collaboration with Gunnebo, a global security leader headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, and founded in 1764, Capital Vaults has created a world-class robotic system that

HOW IT WORKS

The system combines technology, anonymity, and advanced user identification with multiple layers of authentication.

almost eradicates human interface and is completely keyless. The company spent years working with IT engineers developing access to the safe, Gunnebo’s South Africa Sales Director, Gail Carew said.

The system eliminates risks associated with human intervention. To sign up you call a customer service centre. A name, a bank card and a fingerprint is required.

Capital Vaults doesn’t know what is in your safety deposit box.

To access your deposit box you go into one of two secure privacy suites available – a private lounge in the casino. Entry is via card (any bank card works), biometric fingerprint and numeric password. Once alone inside the suite, you approach a console where you input the same data again.

Capital Vaults customers carry no cards or branded insignia, reducing the risk of being targeted.

Once a card, pin and fingerprint have been entered it initiates a robotic sequence that extracts your secure automated box from the vault within a minute, using a unique user ID. Once you have engaged with the contents of your box, it is locked and transported back into

WE ALL HAVE BELONGINGS THAT ARE PRECIOUS TO US, WHICH IS WHY A DURBAN ENTREPRENEUR, THEO MOODLEY, HAS CREATED CAPITAL VAULTS

Capital Vaults customers carry no cards or branded insignia identifying the company, which dramatically reduces the risk of them being targeted

the vault.

Customers have access to four different boxes, which are dubbed silver, gold, platinum and diamond and vary in size: capable of holding 10kg, 15kg, 20kg and 25kg. An example of how big the silver box is – it holds 294 Kruger Coins, or is adequately sized to store a will, birth certificates, ID documents and other essentials.

No documentation is required to open a safety deposit box, and customers remain completely anonymous and never have to identify themselves to anyone. There is no record of customer transactions. Capital Vault’s promise is that computerised robotics will never steal from you.

Monthly rental ranges between R379 and R1 039, and there are no contracts and no joining fees. Given the location of Capital Vaults, access is available 24/7/365.

ADDITIONAL PROTECTION

The key differentiator of Capital Vaults is that when humans have to get involved, the system requires a unique six-eye security protocol. Humans only enter the vault under exceptional circumstances and when they do, three people or six eyes have to be present including a Capital Vaults employee, a Gunnebo staffer and a Capital Vaults head of security. Everything they do in the vault is recorded and transmitted live to Gunnebo’s office. An example of when humans have to enter the vault might be in the case of an emergency, death or disability. If a customer is involved in a fatal car crash, they will have left instructions for who can access the vault along with an inventory of what is in their box. If that inventory is disputed, the six-eye protocol is engaged and the box is inspected by three unconnected and independent people and

recorded. The system has been stress tested globally and no one can gain access to the vaults – not even Theo Moodley himself if he were put under duress to do so.

Scan the QR code to learn more about how to de-risk your home

party TIME

BOLD COLOURS AND EASY TO WEAR – STYLISH GLAMOUR NEVER LOOKED THIS GOOD

Classic Chic

One statement dress – no matter the colour and style – can be brought to life by adding accessories, belts, bags, jackets and more. Or, keep it plain and simple. Let your mood dictate your style.

These dresses are light, breathable, don’t crease, travel well, and enhance your inner beauty. Everyone deserves to look classic and chic. *

FOR MORE INFO

classicchicza; www.shopclassicchic.com; www.classicchicza.com; Umhlanga Chartwell Drive

TOP LEFT: Classic pearl white bandage dress with mesh at the top. Tight fitting, and beautifully shapes the body, zip at back and knee length.

TOP MIDDLE & ABOVE: Red strapless bandage dress with red ruffle with pink underneath.

TOP RIGHT: Strapless white dress with bow.

FAR LEFT: Emerald green bandage dress with gold button on strap, zip at back and below knee length, complemented with a classic tweed jacket with gold buttons.

LEFT: Off-the-shoulder black bandage dress with black and white ruffle. Beautifully shapes the body.

MAKEUP

For the love of beauty, we just can’t get over how gorgeous these must have makeup products are! Head on over to your nearest Edgars or Edgars Beauty store or visit www.edgars.co.za to shop these and many more.

3

ABOVE: Cas wears triangle top in Rose, R699, with matching tie-side bottoms, R599, under a silk sari kimono, R1 299.

LEFT: Mandisa wears an underwire twist bandeau in Fern, R899, under a silk sari kimono, R1 299.

RIGHT: Cas wears the underwire halter ring in Red, R899, with matching basic bottoms, R599, under a silk Shahida button-up shirt, R2 499.

beach GLAM

LOOK A MILLION DOLLARS IN BEACHWEAR THAT WILL TURN HEADS

Beach & Beyond

Still looking for new swimwear to pack for your summer holidays? Then look no further than Beach & Beyond.

Designer swimwear – bikinis and one-pieces – as well as kimonos, kaftans, resortwear, loungewear and loads more, Beach & Beyond is your one-stop shop to make sure you look good all summer long. Don’t leave home without us. *

FOR

MORE INFO

Shop online at www.beachandbeyond.co.za; Shop in store at Gateway: 031 584 7423, uMhlanga Centre: 031 561 1939 or Ballito Lifestyle Centre: 032 586 3221

Circus Circus, a relaxed yet upmarket, lifestyle restaurant and café has been a part of the Durban eating culture since 1994. With a wide variety of meals on the menu, from salads, steaks and seafood, to pastas, curries, wraps, hot & cold breakfasts and deli sandwiches to name but a few, there is something for everyone, including exceptional coffees perfectly brewed by our friendly baristas. So what’ll it be? Cortado, flat white, cappuccino, espresso?

There's no substitute for freshness in the Circus Circus kitchen. We love quality ingredients, the people who produce them and their real stories, which are part of every delicious plate of food. If you are looking for a restaurant with warm, atten tive and friendly service, you have come to the right place.

A DURBAN FAVOURITE SINCE 1994

As Africa’s leading awardwinning property and lifestyle marketing agency, Rainmaker Marketing’s team provides a turnkey solution with a niche for property and off-plan developments. Celebrating a decade in business, Rainmaker Marketing has grown from just servicing clients in KwaZulu-Natal, where the agency is still based, to now having expanded property, lifestyle and business clients throughout South Africa and abroad.

“We have organically expanded our services beyond our home ground borders into Gauteng, Western Cape, Mauritius, Portugal, the United States and Australia. I am unbelievably passionate about KZN as a province in terms of what we have from a

10yearsofbuilding A FUTURE

MARKETING

THE LAST

climate and amenities perspective and how this property market far exceeds expectations and delivers way beyond what people give it credit for.

“As an agency, we are fortunate to have been granted opportunities by key developers along KZN’s North Coast that have allowed us to be part of the

changing landscape and to ultimately help introduce these unbelievable lifestyles to the market. I also really believe that KZN has been the market leader within South Africa in terms of pioneering many aspects of estate and secure precinct living,” says Stefan Botha, founder and director of Rainmaker Marketing.

Passion, unequalled knowledge of property, refined expertise and creative outlook has earned Rainmaker Marketing the title of Africa’s best in the business for multiple campaigns created on behalf

of clients.

As proof, in October this year HQ Sandton – the fastest selling development in Sandton, Gauteng – was announced as the first place winner for the Best Development Marketing at the International Property Awards held in Dubai. Backed by an award-winning marketing campaign in partnership with Rainmaker Marketing, the development has outpaced its closest competition by 193% in their current average monthly rate of sales and with its targeted bold and fresh campaign. *

RAINMAKER

HAS, OVER

10 YEARS, PUT ITS STAMP OF CREATIVITY AND PROFESSIONALISM ON THE PROPERTY SECTOR AT HOME AND FURTHER AFIELD

We strive to be at the forefront of property marketing and in doing so pride ourselves in achieving outstanding results for our clients”

RIGHT: Lord Waverley, Sebastian Schmidt, Stefan Botha, Majid Al Marri, and Stuart Shield.

SAGE CENTRE live, eat, play

Sage Centre – in the heart of the North Coast – has been designed around family, relaxation, and a truly unique and niche retail experience. Whether it’s food and beverage, retail or beauty, tenants have been handpicked to provide the highest standards of excellence, and all of our artisans have an established history and track record in their respective industries.

At Sage you’ll find yourself surrounded by green trees and shady spots where you

can relax over coffee with friends, a business meeting or a family event.

For young families, a multifaceted secure play area has been designed for both toddlers and older kids to enjoy – with our Ol’ Mac Roberts’ farm becoming an extremely popular attraction.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy at Sage!

FOR MORE INFO: 064 817 2980; info@sagecentre. co.za; sagecentre; W Sage Centre

SAGE BAKERY & CAFÉ

Set amongst the beautiful trees, Sage Bakery & Café has it all for the entire family – kids play area, delicious freshly brewed coffee, freshly baked goods for breakfast, or our yummy home-made wood fire pizzas for lunch. We are pet friendly and also cater for functions and events.

FOR MORE INFO: 031 023 0855; open daily, 8am-4pm; sagebakerycafe

THE HOME OF GOOD HAIR

At The Hair Shack we strive to offer our clients a seamless combination of old-school training and new-school trends teamed with classic, upmarket service and a down-to-earth, vibrant atmosphere.

We offer high-street fashion, advanced technical colouring, precision and offthe-edge cutting – making you happy is our passion. Pop in for a complimentary,

obligation-free consultation – WhatsApp today for an appointment.

The Hair Shack – proudly voted The Best Hair Salon and The Best Barber in The North Coast Courier’s Best of Ballito Readers’ Choice Awards 2022; home of Game of Wella Balayage Colour Champion Justen Laubscher; and proud sponsors of Ballito TV and the Miss Ballito Pageant.

FOR MORE INFO: Call/Whatsapp: 082 450 2359/032 032 0190; Sage Centre, Salt Rock; Tues-Fri: 8am-4pm, Sat: 8am-1.30pm; W The Hair Shack at Sage

CRAFTED FURNITURE & DECOR

Greenhaus Furniture & Décor offers homeowners a unique space showcasing interior furnishings, from quality furniture, decor, upholstery, rugs, wallpaper, mirrors, lighting, curtains and blinds. They also offer custom furniture and upholstery (see Facebook/Instagram page greenhausliving) plus a specialised hardware department with leading woodcare brands for furniture, decks, carpentry, and so on.

FOR MORE INFO: 032 525 4439; email info@greenhaus.co.za; shop online www.greenhausshop.com; W @greenhausliving.

WINEOLOGY

A boutique wine shop, with a love for intesting wines. We stock unique wine and MCC brands that you will not find in mainstream stores, with our flagship brand being Black Elephant Vintners. We also do wine tastings, so pop in and chat to us about how we can customise a tasting or event for you.

FOR MORE INFO: 071 671 0728; vanessa@wineology.co.za; www.wineology.co.za; @Wineologysaltrock

MUCH LOVED LOCAL BOUTIQUE

Willow & Ruby offer a truly unique and carefully curated collection of exclusive women’s fashion, accessories, gifts, homeware, and decor. Laidback luxury with a dreamy coastal vibe, inspired by the beauty and coastal way of life here on the North Coast.

Passionate about showcasing proudly South African brands and

products, they support talented local designers and creatives, as well as source ethical and unique treasures from around the world.

At Willow & Ruby they offer complimentary gift wrapping, and their friendly, approachable staff love to assist you in finding the perfect gift or outfit for yourself or that someone special.

FOR MORE INFO: 072 392 2798; www.willowandruby.co.za; @willowandrubystore

THE H I R SHACK

CROP – FOR BEAUTIFUL HAIR

Crop is a boutique hair salon situated in the heart of Sage Centre, which first opened its doors eight years ago in Durban North, before branching out with this second store in Salt Rock.

Clients will experience a professional service within the warm and welcoming environment of the salon. Our team of hair stylists use top quality products, and through continuous education, they are inspired to create beautiful hair.

HAPPY-GO-LUCKY

Happy-Go-Lucky is the North Coast’s finest custom tattoo shop located in Sage Centre, Salt Rock. The artists have had years of experience working across the country and internationally, and specialise in all forms of tattooing from traditional to black and grey, and everything in between.

FOR MORE INFO: To book, follow us on @happy-go-lucky tattoos or email us happygoluckytattoos@gmail.com

MERGING

SUNSETS & MERMAIDS

S

Both are very hands-on and passionate about their prime Chartwell Drive venue. And, from the name to the menu and vibe, it’s clear they’re intent on creating something unique and adventurous. There’s a relaxed, welcoming appeal to the light, beachy restaurant adorned with reminders of Durban’s rich history as an iconic surf spot.

Fate thrust Biaggo into the industry. When injury put paid to his promising international junior rugby career, he helped out in the family restaurant, Amici, in La Lucia Mall while studying part-time. With his degree done, Biaggo caddied for a pro, then headed to the Med to work on yachts and explore the world. But that all changed when Covid hit and his father passed away

unsets & Mermaids is an apt name for the coastal-themed restaurant developed by two super-talented, and vastly different, Durban restaurateurs – Biaggo Pelliccia and Brendon Newport (pictured right).unexpectedly in January 2021.

Brendon is a legend in the local restaurant scene, having built a reputation for contemporary dishes that taste and look amazing. Swimming with the sunsets and mermaids theme, signature dishes are inspired by Italian Coastal and Pacific Rim cuisine.

Brendon is in the kitchen every night. “Cooking is my hobby and my lifestyle, where else would I rather be?” he says. His seaweed tacos, a crisp tempura seaweed filled with sushi rice, jewelled cabbage and a salmon sashimi filling, are a hit. Sushi comes in regular, and then there’s “mythical” which includes a Flaming Ferrari experience. “The menu is extensive. We also prepare Italian family favourites –pizza and pasta – our own way with fresh, quality ingredients. And, of course, we do good Durban curries too,” says Brendon.

Open daily from 11am until 12.30am, Sunsets & Mermaids adapts to the day of the week and time of day or night. Over long lunches, after-work drinks and

a light bite, family dinners, date nights, or celebrations – the lighting, music and general ambiance rises and falls accordingly. Good value is a priority and meals range from affordable to top-end.

If Biaggo gets his way, Sunsets & Mermaids will be winning awards soon. “We’ve got what it takes – a great chef, superb ingredients, good staff and an awesome venue.” He slips into rugbyplayer mode: “With attention to a few ‘off-the-ball’ processes that guests might barely notice, we can elevate a good experience into something extraordinary. It’s well within our reach,” he concludes.

For all those who appreciate la dolce vita ... the good life ... Sunsets & Mermaids is an intimate, all-day meeting place right in the heart of uMhlanga Village.

Tel: 031 943 3044

Covid gave many of us the opportunity to reset, and we discovered we could change our lives completely. We left jobs we hated. We discovered we could work from a lovely environment rather than a sterile office. We discovered there were things we could go without.

In my coaching work, though, it looks as though many of my clients are slipping back into their old patterns. They’re taking on more and more (without putting anything down). They’re spending too much time in meetings – and travelling to meetings. They’re running from deadline to deadline. Before they know it, they’ll be back at pre-Covid stress levels – and, like the proverbial boiled frog, they will not even notice the loss of quality in their lives until it’s too late.

The end of a year is a great time to take stock and make some decisions for the next year. If you want to make sure you have a good quality of life in 2023, here are some good starting points:

1. Make A “To Don’t” List

We all have To Do lists, and for most of us they just keep growing. How about this –make some clear decisions about what you will NOT do in 2023. What will you stop doing? These could be things that other people should be doing – so make it clear they will need to do these things if they want them to continue happening. It could be things that add no value to your life, but you keep doing them out of a sense of obligation or guilt. High on my own “To Don’t” list is spending

5ideastomake2023 A CRACKER YEAR

THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS HAVE MADE US ALL MORE AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY OF LIFE. BELINDA DAVIES –A DURBAN-BASED BUSINESS COACH WITH SPECIAL INTERESTS IN STRATEGY AND LEADERSHIP – SUGGESTS FIVE IDEAS TO FOSTER A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE GOING INTO 2023

time writing proposals for people who really just want my ideas, but have no intention of doing any work with me. I’m done with that.

2. Identify What You Definitely Want In Your Life

A little bit of what you fancy does you good. Do you love spending time in nature?

Schedule dates with yourself to get out there and enjoy the mountains, the beach or the birds. Do you love road tripping? Even a few two-day road trips to enjoy our beautiful country will make a significant impact on the quality of your life. Book the time out in your calendar – if you wait to see if you’ll have the time, you’ll never have the time.

I learnt to book my holidays into my calendar before I book my clients in.

Take time out to sit in the garden or in a park – and make it a regular thing. Do you wish you had more time with your friends? Put some dates in your calendar when you can get together with them – and do it before your calendar fills with

busy-ness that doesn’t feed your soul. Include something creative in this list – find an art class or a gardening group and commit to regular creative time.

3. Take Charge Of Your Finances

There’s nothing more draining than continuously struggling financially. Debt is a drain on your bank account and on your soul. Put a plan in place to get out of debt. Look at your retirement planning. Are you on track? Or are you just hoping it will work out? Find a reputable independent financial planner who can help you get on track. Decide what you can do without. Do you really need that new car/outfit/gadget? Or could you put that money towards getting out of debt or your savings?

4. Make A Contribution

I believe our lives have greater purpose when we make a contribution. This is about giving of our time, energy and

expertise in the interests of something outside of our own lives. This could include simple things like helping in a pet shelter, or working with a local charity to help them raise funds. We feel good about ourselves when we make a contribution, but we also connect with others in a meaningful way – that social connection is important to us as human beings. There is something about working together towards something bigger than ourselves, and we need to find something that matters enough to us to be willing to get involved.

5. Practice Gratitude

Life is busy. Life can be difficult. If we don’t make a point of savouring moments of gratitude, we can become blind to all the good in our lives. Start your own daily ritual. Perhaps at the dinner table, every family member talks about something they are grateful for today, or something that warmed their hearts. Alternatively, end your day with a reflection on what was good today. If you know you tend to be overly aware of what is not good in your life, start a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re grateful for each day. It will completely change your focus and you’ll start to notice more and more aspects of your life that are worthwhile and positive. Just being appreciative has an amazing impact on one’s quality of life. *

FOR MORE INFO 082 551 9504; belinda@leadershipsolutions.co.za; www.leadershipsolutions.co.za

What does it take to prep, cook, glaze, decorate, box and add a personal label to over 400 gammons in the two days before Christmas? Answer – the entire Anderson clan and their “extended family” of staff at SuperSpar uMhlanga Rocks.

Driven to exceed customers’ expectations, the team puts in late nights and goes the extra mile to satisfy their customers’ needs.

“This is going to be our 18th Christmas as owners,” says Mark Anderson who took over the ailing store in 2005. “We go all-out

SO MUCH MORE thanashop

AS OWNERS OF THE SUPERSPAR UMHLANGA ROCKS FOR THE PAST 17 CHRISTMASSES, THE ANDERSON FAMILY HAVE PERFECTED THE ART OF SERVING A COMMUNITY THAT RELIES ON THEM FOR VARIETY, QUALITY AND A FESTIVE DESTINATION RETAIL EXPERIENCE THAT’S ABOVE AND BEYOND, WRITES MAGGIE WITTSTOCK

to make sure our regular customers and holidaymakers can obtain everything they need, plus those extraordinary gifts, decor and treats, at this time of the year. A lot of thought, effort and planning go into our Christmas offering,” he says.

Although by far their busiest time of the year, the store is an all-year upmarket destination emporium, which was Mark’s vision for the store.

Having autonomy within the franchise set-up, experience from 40 years in retail, as well as a knack of connecting with customers on the floor, Mark set about creating a destination retail experience. Our buyers source leading health products, imported confectionary, exclusive canned foods, cereals, spices and sauces and the best steak fillets around. The deli will have you filling your basket and the decor/gifting are so on-trend, it takes just seconds to spot what’s hot.

At the spotless butchery, Nicky helps customers to select cuts of their choice and the range of dry-aged meat is top drawer.

“We’re always looking for what’s next,” Mark says. “As tastes and preferences change, we’re nimble enough to keep ahead of the pack. With all of us involved, there are a few perspectives and everyone brings their strengths and skills.”

“With family, trust is implicit, and responsibility is shared so there’s a good balance of spontaneity, consistency and

continuity.” If you’ve been to our uMhlanga Rocks store, you will know at least a few of the crew. There’s Mark, his wife Colleen, her son Tyrone Kerr, his wife Camilla, Travis, his wife Romey, and the youngest son, Keegan. Chris, as a stakeholder, plays a regional role between both the uMhlanga Rocks and Park Square stores.

Keegan spearheads marketing and manages the store’s media. “Within hours of posting our new luxury platters on social media, orders were flying in!” says Keegan. “We know our customers like to do things differently, so our platters include an Asian option, an awesome vegetarian platter, and we add touches like panko prawns.”

Apart from gammons and Christmas delights, customers can look forward to the launch of Spar’s convenient online shopping app, SPAR2U, in December. “As a flagship store, we’ve been piloting the service and look forward to doing deliveries over the festive season,” says Mark.

Freshening up the look and lighting, but staying with the soft, airy colonial feel, SuperSpar uMhlanga Rocks is undergoing a phased revamp.

The SuperSpar uMhlanga Rocks managed to stay open every day during KZN’s floods, riots and Covid, which is a testament to the family’s commitment to the community and unflagging support from loyal staff, customers and suppliers. “It’s so much more than just a shop and a job,” says Mark. *

ABOVE: From left, Keegan, Travis and Tyrone –friendly faces at SuperSpar uMhlanga Rocks.

Following Garlicke & Bousfield’s relocation to La Lucia Ridge in 2001, its Property & Conveyancing Department has been instrumental in shaping the skyline of uMhlanga and the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

The firm, which was established in 1867, has close associations with the business and banking communities in KwaZulu-Natal and is actively involved in advising property developers. The firm offers its property and developer clients a full range of legal services, and with its team of specialist property practitioners, has developed a particular niché in the conceptualisation and implementation of a number of property developments in KwaZulu-Natal.

Garlicke & Bousfield’s Property & Conveyancing Department has the capacity to handle all aspects of property developments from launch date until the registration of transfer to end users and is proud to have been involved in two iconic developments in uMhlanga, namely the Pearls of uMhlanga, which was completed over a period of 14 years, and the Oceans of uMhlanga currently under construction.

The Department has also played a major role in the development of various gated residential and golf estates,

Garlicke & BousfieldÕs LEGACY …

including the establishment of the various Home Owners’ Associations and the governing rules.

Garlicke & Bousfield was honoured to receive two PMR Diamond Arrow awards in 2021 for services in Development & Planning and Property Law/Litigation, as well as Golden Arrow Awards for Mediumsized Law Firms in 2021 and 2022, showcasing the service excellence of the firm and its professionals.

The Property & Conveyancing Department is managed by four directors: Simphiwe Maphumulo, Graeme Phillips, Aletta de Lange and Carla Martin, together with a number of other professionals and a large team of paralegals and support staff.

1. Simphiwe Maphumulo, Director. 2. Graeme Phillips, Director. 3. Carla Martin, Director. 4. Aletta de Lange, Director. 5. Dave Ramsay, Executive Consultant.

… HAS SHAPED THE SKYLINE OF UMHLANGA AND THE NORTH COAST OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Our first All White Party in January 2022. Join us on January 7, 2023 and be entertained by Somizi, Shauwn Mkhize, Scorpion Kings and loads more.

fun,food& FESTIVITIES

THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO CELEBRATE FAMILY AND CHRISTMAS THAN AT MAX’S LIFESTYLE VILLAGE IN UMLAZI. BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS DAY AND MAKE SURE YOUR FAMILY CHERISH THIS TIME TOGETHER AS WE GO INTO 2023

CHRISTMAS LUNCH BUFFET

Family time is special, and Max’s Lifestyle want to make sure you and your family are taken care of while having the best time on Christmas Day. Book now for our Christmas Lunch Buffet on Christmas Day. There will be complimentary welcome drinks, live entertainment, kiddies play area, a secret gift from Santa, and a surprise gift for one lucky person. And of course, as much food as you can eat. For adults the cost is R600 per person, children under three are free, and from four to 11 years the cost is R300; from 12 noon to 3pm.

Founded by Max Mqadi in 2002, Max’s Lifestyle Village in Umlazi is a trendy eatery which has become a must-visit and ritzy hangout for anyone wanting to enjoy a slice of township lifestyle. And with the soccer World Cup final just a week before Christmas, and our second All White Party coming up on January 7, 2023, the vibe and festivities couldn’t be more electric – there’s no better place to be with friends

and family celebrating than at Max’s Lifestyle.

Just in time for summer, Max’s Lifestyle has created some cracker cocktails to get the party going. Bright, fruity and definitely thirst quenching, our cocktails are sure to become must-have drinks to accompany our mouth-watering selection of traditional food – food that Max’s Lifestyle has become known for and perfected over the years.

Max’s vision has become a

reality for him – to turn Max’s Lifestyle into one of the top venues in the country. Where people meet, have their cars washed while they enjoy food and good company, where businessmen can clinch the deal, where companies gather to honour milestones, and where private functions for birthdays, bridal showers, and special family occasions can be celebrated in an exclusive setting offering the very best money can buy. That’s what memories are made of.

FOR MORE INFO Tel: 031 906 1393 | Email: info@maxslifestyle.co.za | Bookings email: khetha@maxslifestyle.co.za Website: www.maxslifestyle.mobi @maxslifestylevillage / @maxslifestyleconference b @maxslifestyle1

itÕs about the LIFESTYLE

a steady pace. The high standard of everything at Mount Edgecombe never falters, and it’s that constancy which appeals, and ensures property values are not only maintained, but escalate.”

With that easy proximity to Durban and uMhlanga – and their beaches – Durban North’s popularity continues unabated, as young families in particular seek freestanding homes in which to raise their children, while accessing the numerous excellent government schools from preprimary through to high.

Further north at Ballito, well-established residential estates are being nudged by a constant wave of superlative newcomers, all with their own niche markets, and estates within estates. In the same estate, you can choose the wilderness, the beach, the views, or all of the above in a fullservice retirement component.

KwaZulu-Natal really does have it all – everything for a superior lifestyle, whether your definition is laidback, cutting edge, or both. Who wouldn’t want the finest beaches, bush and berg within a few hours’ drive?

The perception that the North Coast is only for the high-end market has altered, as developers create pockets of excellence with price ranges to suit everyone –from first-time buyers to very high-end, freestanding homes, to estate living.

CEO Myles Wakefield manages Wakefields Real Estate’s Mount Edgecombe branch, one of four branches along the North Coast – Durban North, uMhlanga (incorporating The Pearls), Mount Edgecombe, and Ballito. Wakefields is a fourth-generation family business, with branches throughout KZN – but as we all know in recent years, the KZN North Coast is the jewel in the crown, not only for KwaZulu-Natal-ers … but for others from around the country and internationally.

Some elite residential apartments are comprised of more international owners than local, and we can’t doubt the impact of that level of investment and how it benefits all.

Mount Edgecombe Country Club was one of the forerunners of estate living on the North Coast, not least of all because of its enviable position relative to the limitless retail and other amenities of uMhlanga, King Shaka International Airport, and the beaches, but also the ease with which one can access Durban, east, west and south. Importantly though, Mount Edgecombe offers a dream lifestyle where security is paramount, the green surroundings immaculate, and responsibility for all that fall on management’s shoulders.

Wakefield says, “For all these reasons, Mount Edgecombe has done exceptionally well this year, with buyers knowing they’re purchasing in an ever-buoyant market within the estate. Properties in the upper reaches are being bought and sold at

North Coast residential estates are prioritising health in the shape of indigenous plantings, wildlife, hiking/ cycling trails, and a host of other wellness facilities and attributes. Some are incorporating top schooling, others have office facilities or retail offerings, all have convivial clubhouses for socialising – some with competitively superb restaurants – and always, world-class security is a strong focus.

The North Coast is also appealing to the semigration trend. Literally, as many choose to earn in Johannesburg, they choose to live along this exceptional coastline. With the airport 10 minutes from most villages, it couldn’t be easier. Now, with the increase of work-from-home opportunities, the North Coast is becoming increasingly the lifestyle of choice. Surf, work, cycle, golf – life here is good, and increasingly, there’s a residential offering for a far broader spectrum of South Africans.

LIVING ALONG THE KZN NORTH COAST GIVES YOU A “QUALITY STREET” CHOICE OF SOME OF SA’S FINEST RESIDENTIAL ESTATES AND COASTAL VILLAGES

LEFT: From left: Myles Wakefield (CEO), Keith Wakefield (Chairman), Paula Haskell (Financial Director) and Haydn Wakefield (Marketing Director).

The end of a year and the beginning of the next is when thoughts turn to New Year’s resolutions – time to lose weight, return to the gym, improve one’s health. The same applies to most small business owners, according to Denzil Steyn, president of the Durban Chapter of the Entrepreneur’s Organisation (EO).

For businesses, 2022 has been a tough year and the perfect storm. The difficult recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, the fallout from the Ukraine war, disruption of global supply chains, skyrocketing energy costs, the local Eskom energy crisis, political instability and climbing inflation are just some of the things that have impacted negatively on local businesses and their clients.

These are likely to continue, Steyn believes. However, he says business leaders need to avoid the mistake of continuing to do the same thing but expecting a different outcome.

According to Statistics South Africa, the total number of liquidations in South Africa increased by 44,8% in August 2022 compared with the same period a year ago.

Apart from formally underscoring the fact that this country has one of the highest SMME failure rates in the world, the University of the Western Cape’s entrepreneurship specialist, Professor Christian Freidrich, has dug a little deeper. He says that a massive research programme spanning the last 15 years has revealed that a smaller business can rise or fall on the decisions of

BE A WINNER in 2023

23 TIPS TO RUN YOUR BUSINESS BETTER IN 2023

the entrepreneur who owns it. This is because the owner is the source of action in a firm, makes the key decisions, and deals with important customers, suppliers, and employees.

Entrepreneurs need to think and act differently in 2023, not only through growing their business skills, but by learning

from successful peers who have ridden out and even grown during one of the most turbulent economic times, Steyn notes.

To close off 2022, EO Durban members have shared 23 tips which they believe are integral to running a successful business in 2023. »

DENZIL STEYN: CEO OF INTELLISEC AND PRESIDENT

OF EO

1. Build your team, set direction and execute systematically and passionately, in that order.

2. Don’t demand loss recovery from a chosen path. If it is not working, learn, let go and reset direction.

3. Love what you are doing. If there is no love, figure out what is draining you and make changes.

4. It’s tough and lonely at the top. Invest in membership of an organisation such as EO where you can enjoy the support of peers in the business arena.

three- or five-year vision is. Make it achievable and get buy-in.

7. Establish a business operating system that your team uses to help keep the business moving forward.

8. Always be thankful for what you have and who you have around you.

9. Stay focused and be disciplined.

14. Focus on the things you are good at. When a teacher marks an exam and there is one wrong answer, they don’t score it 1/10, they score it 9/10. Focus on the right metrics.

15. Feelings achieve nothing, action = change.

16. Communicate early and honestly.

17. It’s not the survival of the fittest, it’s the survival of the most adaptable. Learn to adapt.

BRUCE ROWE: CEO OF MPOWERED

5. Having a company purpose gives you direction for any and all ideation and decision making.

6. Have absolute clarity on what your

10. Pay attention to what your gut is telling you. Even if it is a tweak, listen.

11. It’s all about cashflow. So many businesses close their doors with big profits on paper and not in the bank.

12. Try not to let issues go unresolved. They always come back to visit when you can least afford them to.

CINDY NORCOTT: CEO OF PRO TALENT

18. Hire people better than you, treat them well and trust them, and you’ll see your business grow to the next level.

19. Move quickly and heed the saying, “It’s not the big who eat the small, it’s the fast who eat the slow.” Be responsive to changes and react quickly.

20. Always keep a close eye on costs because they creep up quickly. Go through every line item on your expense column each month with the intention of reducing your costs by 10%.

21. You will never save yourself into success. Success comes from sales. Make sure you are always in selling mode and that every staff member in your company understands that sales is part of their role.

22. Never accept “that’s not my job” from any of your staff, and always model a humble, can-do approach.

TARRYN TAIT: CEO OF BASICS

AND BEYOND

13. Growth is not always linear. Sometimes to go forward, we have to go backwards.

23. In every transaction with clients, throw in extra value, whether it is a free smile, extra convenience, support, free advice, free shipping. Give people more than they have any right to expect. *

MARK ESSEY: CEO OF CAPABILITY BPO

ALL SUMMER long

 SMOOTH AND SILKY SUMMER LEGS

Millions of women the world over struggle with cellulite – even women with a slim figure may experience “orange peel” skin. You can combat it in several ways, such as with physical exercise, proper diet, drinking lots of water, and anti-cellulite massages. Get your legs looking smooth and silky for summer with a cellulite massage package from Deli. Deli: 079 765 7404; R1 000 for eight 30-minute sessions.

 SUMMER NAILS

If you try one nail art and manicure trend this summer, make sure it is Chrome. Silver, bronze, or any metallic at all, done in both opaque and sheer formulas, chrome nails have been seen on so many runways this season, making it a must-have look for summer street style.

 BRAZILIAN CRUSH, CHEIROSA 62

Scent your entire world with this perfume mist. Spay it on hair, clothes, and in your space for a delicious pistachio, salted caramel and vanilla scent. Inspired by the year 1962, when the world fell in love with The Girl from Ipanema and the beach culture of Brazil. It’s the scent people can’t get enough of – it’s everyone’s Summer CRUSH. Shop the Sol De Janeiro range on www.takealot.com.

THE SUN’S OUT, HOLIDAYS ARE HERE, SO LET THE FUN BEGIN WITH OUR GUIDE TO A FEW SUMMER ESSENTIALS

 POOL FLOAT

Summer is all about having fun – but why should long lazy days in the pool be limited to just the kids? This funky Moscow Mule Float will make you feel like you’re relaxing on a tropical island … sipping cocktails all summer long! R385, leroymerlin.co.za.



BEACH PICNICS

No summer is complete without a beach picnic. Make your picnic not only practical, but totally aesthetically pleasing and absolutely instagrammable with the following items.

There was a time when outdoor adventure was done with style, using products that were elegant, durable and portable. The Fieldbar Co are nostalgic for this era. Using modern materials to build outdoor products they would have made 60 years ago, they have combined functional technicality with stylish craftsmanship, resulting in an uber attractive drinks box. R1 799, www.fieldbar.co.za.

Invest in a sophisticated, oak wood picnic table to enjoy a picnic anytime, anywhere. The foldable, portable and easy-to-carry design keeps your food sand free and your glasses spillproof. R1 479, yuppiechef.com.

PALMER’S NATURAL BRONZE BODY LOTION



SUMMER COCKTAIL

The Moscow Mule is simple, easy and totally delicious. Combine vodka, ginger beer and lime juice with plenty of crushed ice and serve in an attractive copper mug. So refreshing. Mugs, R220, takealot.com.

Enriched with pure cocoa butter, vitamin E and a touch of self-tanner, this is the best way to avoid sun damage to your skin, while still looking sunkissed all summer long. Apply this lotion weekly to create a beautiful natural glow. Clicks R108.

Apply this lotion weekly natural glow.

 MAC VIVA GLAM LIPSTICK

Celebrate 27 years of giving back 100% to support healthy futures and equal rights for all with three special-edition Lipsticks in Keith Haring’s signature primary colour palette. In case you didn’t know, 100% of the sale earnings from any Viva Glam product goes to fund HIV/AIDS related charities, including those affected by Covid-19. Have a little fun with your summer look and get yourself a Viva Glam Lipstick. R216, Edgars.

howbalanced ARE YOU?

GETTING TO THE CORE OF AN INJURY MAY BE AS SIMPLE AS LOOKING AT YOUR ALIGNMENT, SAYS NELFRIE KEMP

When walking and running, your body was designed to follow a certain pattern. It is often referred to as the kinetic chain which is an engineered concept used to describe human movement. All the structures in the body – be it bones, muscles, organs, etc – are interconnected, and if one part is not functioning properly it will cause the other parts to work harder or differently to what it was designed to do. Our body is a dynamic system that adapts, compensates and changes as it goes along, but it can’t always accommodate imbalances – and that is usually when injury occurs.

When one faces an injury it’s important to not only focus on the structure involved, for instance achilles tendon, plantar fascia

or ITB. The structure forms part of an integral system, and each structure has been designed to function in a certain way, which usually becomes symptomatic when not functioning correctly. This is why it’s important to establish the cause of the injury, which may entail looking beyond your run, perhaps at your everyday activity, posture and shoe choice.

From experience, I have found that if an injury is only one-sided (left or right) it usually has to do with your alignment and mechanics. The aim with treatment should always be to restore function of the structure and alignment of the body so that the kinetic chain can activate properly when walking. An holistic approach should always be followed when treating a niggle or injury, and daily activity and shoewear should also be addressed.

ARE YOU BALANCED?

Aligning your body is very similar to your car’s wheel alignment. You align your wheels for longer-lasting tyres. Here are 10 questions to determine if your body is aligned or not.

1. Do you always develop niggles only on the one side of your body?

2. Compare your left and right wear pattern on the soles of your everyday and sport shoes – is it different?

3. Do you always lean on to the one leg/side when standing?

4. Do you find you always carry your bag over a specific shoulder?

5. Do you find that your one bra strap always slips off? Are they equally tightened?

6. If you develop callouses on your feet, are they in the same spots on both feet or in different spots?

7. When you cross your legs when sitting, is it always the same leg that goes over the other?

8. Do you always get a hole on the upper of the one shoe and not the other?

9. Does your one shoe wear out more or differently than the other at the back of your heel?

10. Do you walk “off” your slops when wearing them, or do they wear out unevenly? *

FOR MORE INFO

Nelfrie Kemp: www.nelfriekemp.co.za; @nelfriekemp W @nelfriekemp

SINGLE parenting

IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD, WRITES CHRISTY HERSELMAN

Most stay-athome moms of small kids know this feeling; it has been a long day with only toddlers for company, the floor is strewn with Lego and Oaties, you can’t remember if you even brushed your teeth this morning, your two-year-old is ugly crying because you cut his snack wrong, and you can’t decide whether your feverish baby has the common cold or needs to be hospitalised.

And then your husband walks through the door. You hand him the crying baby and begin to share all your frustrations and concerns while you sip your first hot cup of tea (or cold glass of wine) of the day. Suddenly things are a little easier, the load a little lighter and this parenting thing seems possible again.

But what if there is no spouse or partner to walk through the door? What if it is just you? There is no one coming to take over baby duty or help you negotiate with the tantrum-throwing toddler. What if all the decisions are on you, and there isn’t someone else to share the load?

For single parents, this is the reality.

If you think it gets easier

when the kids get older, what about being the only one to wait up to fetch them from a party? Struggling not just to pay for school fees, but also extra maths lessons, cricket coaching and sports tours?

Single parents often feel overwhelmed because they are mom and dad, disciplinarian and comforter, lift club and homework club.

They often feel lonely, not having a spouse to go through struggles with or even just for adult company.

They often feel judged and inadequate, constantly trying to keep up and thinking they are getting it all wrong.

If they share custody, they have to be two different people – one week a single, one week a full-time parent. Saying goodbye is heartbreaking every time. They feel anxious when their child is at their ex’s – a home with different rules, different people and different expectations they have no control over.

Being a single parent is never easy, and if it takes a village to raise a child, how can we be the village to those around us parenting solo, especially over the Christmas season? I asked four experts (aka two single dads and two single moms). Here are some

of the gems they shared with me:

• Invite us to join you for outings in public places which would be too hard for one parent: a day at the beach or night at the movies.

• Many single parents work fulltime and need help with kids during the holidays. Offer to take our kids for an hour or two while we work, so we can do our Christmas shopping or run the errands we usually have to drag them to.

• Don’t judge. The story is more complicated than you know, and we are doing the best we can.

• Don’t say things like, “It must be nice to get a weekend off.” We dread that weekend when we don’t have our kids and often don’t know what to do with ourselves.

• Men, offer to help single moms with hard things like popped tyres, opening mayo jars and throwing a ball.

Ladies, offer to help single dads with things they don’t know how to do, like taking his daughter shopping or for a pedi, baking biscuits or helping create a dress-up costume ... things that single parents don’t have help with from a partner anymore.

• We often feel like we don’t fit in with “the married crowd” and we really need to feel like we belong. Invite us to your braai, your family dinner or to a playdate with your kids. Visit us. The holidays can be extra-lonely.

So as our homes fill up with family for the holidays, let’s stop and think about those who are parenting alone and don’t have the support we have over this time.

As one of my favourite sayings goes, “When you have more than you need, build a longer table, not a higher fence.” *

Scan this QR code to find out more about Christy Herselman and her culture-shaping movement The Chat!

Just like that, the year-end functions and the excitement of the festive season are upon us, and by the time you read this, the holiday season will be well and truly in full swing.

It is inevitable that someone in the family will be armed with all those delish festive treats – mince pies, chocolates, cakes – and not to mention the drinks and cocktails you’ll enjoy and the extra braai’s, beach snacks and nibbles at the poolside.

So, what is the trick to avoid gaining weight during the festive season, without feeling like you’re being deprived of the treats and spoils?

1. Enjoy the treats but keep moving! Go for a walk with the kids, do an online workout, walk the dog, play sport on the beach. Give yourself “permission” to eat all foods. Usually during the festive season, we cannot always control the types of food on offer. When you deprive yourself of certain foods, you often tend to want them more. Permission does not mean you have to eat everything in sight. It means you are giving yourself the chance to enjoy the treats that everyone else is enjoying – but, you are being mindful of how much you are eating. Eat in moderation and enjoy every bite.

HOLIDAY healthtips

THIS TIME OF YEAR IS ALL ABOUT MINDFULLY EATING AND MOVING THROUGH DECEMBER, AND SETTING GOALS FOR THE NEW YEAR, SAYS HEALTH LIFESTYLE GURU CHRISTY ANN

2. Have healthy treats readily available – and make sure some of them are healthier low-carb treats. Enjoying these will result in fewer blood sugar spikes, and in turn will help those cravings, thus making a significant difference to your energy levels. Try Googling any low-carb options, like lowcarb chocolate mousse made with avocado, or strawberry shortcake made with almond flour. Have a stock of low-

carb granola bars and snacks stashed away. There are many “carb smart” options at shops like Wellness Warehouse and Woolworths.

3. Start mindful eating by following these tips:

• Don’t hurry when eating.

• Feel the taste of your food and enjoy the textures and aromas of each food type.

• Play soft, relaxing music.

• Eat your favourite food last.

• No multi-tasking, like watching TV or checking your phone.

• Sit at the dining table.

• Put your utensils down in between bites.

4. Visualise how you will resist the temptation of the second helping or piece of cake. Some theories say we only have capacity to resist temptation a certain number of times in a day. Visualise how you will resist the temptation. “Feel” the craving for more cake and live it out in your head, and then how you will refuse it and distract yourself with something else.

3 GOALS FOR 2023

Let’s start 2023 strong –start planning for a healthy lifestyle for the new year. Goal setting is the best place to start. But how?

1. Set your goals and be specific – setting goals gives you direction and the motivation to keep going.

2. Give yourself a timeline.

3. Remain consistent. Small lifestyle changes that you are consistent with, will give you results in the long run.

Enjoy the journey along the way! *

FOR MORE INFO

Join my live daily online workouts from the comfort of your home, and look out for my Reset Challenge in January. Subscribe to my workouts and shop my active range here: www.christyann.fit

awalkin THE WILD

THANDA SAFARI’S WONDERFUL VARIETY OF EXPERIENCES GIVES YOUR BUSH BREAK THAT LITTLE BIT EXTRA

Offering a world of wilderness and a deep commitment to Zulu culture and environmental conservation, Big Five private game reserve Thanda, meaning love in Zulu, really has it all, and more. This 14 000-hectare reserve

doesn’t stop at offering an abundance of wildlife and a luxurious lodge experience, but also has a huge focus on authentic activities for visitors who want a bit more out of their bush break.

At Thanda you have the opportunity to participate in rhino monitoring –where you track rhinos on foot and learn about their behaviour, as well as rhino darting – which gives you the rare opportunity to be in close contact with these prehistoric animals. There are also cultural activities on offer, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of the Zulu people and experience a Zulu blessing under the sacred marula tree.

Then there are the walking safaris, of course, which are exhilarating, educational and enriching all at once. Thanda’s guides and trackers have extensive knowledge of flora and fauna, animal spoor and animal tracking – not to mention many personal anecdotes from their own villages, tribal elders and families. They’ll teach you about the smaller, but no less impressive, aspects and secrets of the bush. Being on foot in the bush in the domain of wild animals is one of the most exciting experiences life has to offer, and makes you feel part of the circle of life.

Last but not least, Thanda has

ABOVE: Christian Sperka.

become a popular destination for those wanting to see the bush through a lens and capture wonderful memories and moments through photography.

Christian Sperka, the resident wildlife photographer, teaches according to his basic rules of wildlife/motion photography under the motto “Keep it Simple”. He has travelled the world photographing animals and his work has been featured in wildlife magazines and books.

If booked in advance, for guests who stay two nights or more, Thanda offers a complimentary two-hour photography lesson with Christian. You can also book a three-hour evening game drive with Christian in the Green Mamba – the ultimate photography safari vehicle – to put into practice what you have learnt. A bird photography experience is also available at Thanda; you can choose between a half-day or a full-day excursion to the nearby Mkhuze Game Reserve.

At Thanda Safari there really is something special for everyone. * FOR MORE INFO www.thandasafari.co.za

After conducting thousands of interviews and working with truck owners around the world to find out how they used their vehicles, their likes, what they wished the vehicle had, and their experiences, Ford South Africa has engineered the Next-Gen Ranger to be the smartest, most versatile, and most capable Ranger yet for customers.

This approach has helped design and engineer the Next-Gen Ranger with what customers have dreamt of. The truck has

thenext LEVEL

been put through its limits across some of the toughest terrain around the world to ensure that it’s capable and ready for our customers, but at the same time meets Ford’s world-class quality, reliability, and durability standards.

With a rugged new look and a variety of new features that elevate productivity, capability and versatility, the Next-Gen Ranger has been designed to go more places while working harder, offering more comfort and refinement than ever before.

Customers expect their vehicles to go

above and beyond, so testing scenarios matched what customers might put their pickup through. In addition, the tests took place at facilities across the world to ensure that this Ranger meets the needs and wants of all customers.

Visually, the look is bold and confident, with an exterior that shares Ford’s global truck design DNA. Features include a defined new grille and signature C-clamp headlight treatment at the front, while a subtle shoulder line down the sides and bolder wheel-arches give the Ranger a

THE NEXT-GEN RANGER – LOOKS BOLDER, MORE CONFIDENT, WORKS HARDER AND SMARTER, IS MORE VERSATILE, OFFERS MORE COMFORT – JUST WHAT YOU’D EXPECT FROM THE NEXT GENERATION

buffed-up stance. The pickup now offers matrix LED headlights, and the taillights are designed with signature graphics on the front.

Inside, the cabin feels like a car –premium soft-touch materials have been used, and a huge centre touchscreen that includes SYNC®4 connectivity and entertainment system ticks all the boxes for tech-savvy owners.

Under the hood the Next-Gen Ranger offers the following:

• A single turbo engine which comes in

two different performance levels, offering 110kW and 350Nm, and 125kW and 405Nm.

• Ford’s proven 2,0-litre Bi-Turbo that makes 155kW and 500Nm.

• 3,0-litre V6 turbodiesel makes up to 184kW of power and 600Nm of torque.

• The Raptor comes equipped with a high performance 3,0-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 that delivers 292kW and 583Nm.

In terms of versatility, this vehicle offers an array of organisation and

storage solutions to secure cargo. Fitting accessories can be customised, for instance, owners can create segmented DIY storage spaces in so many ways.

There are tie-downs mounted in the bed, sliding cleats that can be adjusted into nine positions to help secure cargo, while external tie-down rails make securing bulky loads easier. And the new rear load box access step is the result of truck owners saying what they wanted from their next vehicle.

If you love an adventure, six structural attachment points in the protective load

box capping have been added making it easy to fit accessories like a canopy, cross bars or a tent, which makes the Next-Gen Ranger the most versatile ever.

There’s more storage space in the cabin as well – from under the seat storage to retractable cup holders and a raft of cubby holes all over. There’s even room under the bonnet for a second battery, and the vehicle has been wired with auxiliary switches which make it easier to add accessories like driving lights, a winch and more.

Models include the Next-Gen Ranger XL, the stylish XLT, rugged Sport, adventurer Wildtrak and Powerful Raptor. *

FOR MORE INFO

Contact a CMH Ford dealer in Ballito, uMhlanga, Durban and Durban South; www.cmhford.co.za

The Next-Gen Ranger has been designed to go more places while working harder, offering more comfort and refinement than ever before

 FUN & FRIVOLITY WITH FENTY & EDGARS BEAUTY

#Fentyberryholiday celebration was enjoyed at the Beverly Hills Hotel over a sublime threecourse luncheon and L’Ormarins Vintage Brut Rose. Beautiful-themed berry decor set the scene for a memorable afternoon, and the ladies of uMhlanga were wowed by the powerful and inspiring Lauren Engelbrecht Titus from Fenty who shared tips, tricks and insights of fabulous FentyBeauty. Another signature event by @lorgourlay.

 FAMILY DAY AT LALELA

Lalela Estate recently hosted their interactive communitybuilding Family Day at The Manor House, welcoming future residents and neighbours to meet and get to know each other a little better. Fun activities kept all members of the family entertained from the young to the young at heart. Lalela reinvigorates the essence of a quintessential neighbourhood emphasising the importance of “community” within a secure, lifestyle estate.

1. Paul Smith, Deborah and Trenley Tilbrook, and Meg and Geoff Perkins.

2. Bheki and Lindi Ngema.

3. Rudy, Hayley and Robynne McNeill.

4. Miguel and Blake Latchmanna, and Max Allan.

INVESTING inproperty

mindful of not aiming too high – it is critical that you build a “sellable” home, which means targeting the middle market rather than the top-end, as there are far more buyers circulating in the median price bands. For example, it is preferable to build and sell two R5-million homes than to build and sell one R10-million home. Ideally, if you are able to sell your plot-and-plan before construction commences, you

Property has always been perceived as a relatively stable investment class and if correctly geared, it can be a wonderful vehicle for longterm wealth creation.

Savvy investors will leverage their property portfolios and effectively use other people’s money to grow their asset bases. However, many of our clients are unsure about which strategy to adopt: a simple long-term strategy of acquiring stock and tenanting it for capital growth and ongoing returns; off-plan investing to enjoy the tax savings that come with owning multiple off-plan units and the benefits of VAT inclusive prices; or renovating and flipping for faster shorter-term gain.

The acquisition costs associated with buying property, make flipping for profit a fine balancing act. If this is your aim, then it is ideal to purchase a property that requires cosmetic changes rather than structural ones, as the key is to avoid spending more than 15% of the value of

the property on renovations. If the renovations are extensive – and therefore expensive –you may need to hold on to the property for a period of time in order to maximise the gain.

If you are looking to flip, then acquisition costs need to be factored into your sums, and capital gains tax also needs to be taken into account. Ideally,

resale of at least 10-20% of your total expenditure, after costs. Your sums need to include finance costs, transfer costs and then capital gains tax. Some investors prefer to play in the market under R1-million because transfer costs are much lower (R25 000). However, in this price category there is a risk of over-spending on the renovation, then struggling to recover the costs on the sale.

At a higher level, serial investors may be seeking larger scale speculation projects. There is more significant upside on these transactions, but they come with holding costs and greater risk. A good example of a speculation strategy is to purchase vacant land in estates and to develop multiple homes simultaneously to keep building costs down.

you want to buy for under R2-million, spend a maximum of R300 000 renovating, and then achieve a gain on the

The profit of turnkey solutions in estates can be significant with many speculators making in excess of 15% profit. Always evaluate demand and then cut your cloth accordingly. Also be

ABOVE: Carol Reynolds, Pam Golding, uMhlanga and Durban North.

WITH THE CURRENT VOLATILITY IN GLOBAL STOCKS, IT IS NOT SURPRISING THAT MANY INVESTORS ARE REDIRECTING THEIR FOCUS TO THEIR PROPERTY PORTFOLIOS, WRITES CAROL REYNOLDS

Looking at medium to longer-term investment options, there are essentially three key factors to bear in mind: risk, return and growth

have a winning formula.

Looking at medium to longer-term investment options, there are essentially three key factors to bear in mind: risk, return and growth. If minimising risk is important, then you should consider a diversified portfolio or perhaps a portfolio with lots of entry-level investments spread across a few nodes. If you have a lot of money to invest, then perhaps long-term capital appreciation is your main priority in which case you require a solid investment portfolio in the most soughtafter areas.

When taking risk into consideration, tenant profiling is key. To this end, statistics show that the most reliable tenants are those in the R8 000-R20 000 a month category. This means that from an investment perspective, properties that

sell for between R1-million and R3,5-million are your best investments in terms of rental returns. As a new property investor this is the best way to get started as your risk is minimal, your borrowing needs are small and if you ever need to quickly off-load a property, this price range is the easiest to sell. There is also an abundance of tenants in this price category, so there is very little risk of your property sitting vacant.

In a nutshell, the best way to minimise risk when investing in property is to thoroughly research area demand and price ceilings per area. We are fortunate in that the North Coast of KZN continues to be a high-demand area and hence investing in suburbs like uMhlanga is generally safe and your property investments should attract tenants and/or buyers with relative ease. *

Delmarie Holing 084 727 2144

Adine Marcon 0171 679 4806

Belinda Du Plessis 082 258 9631

Bharthie Gangaram 082 434 5359

Bedrooms

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/ An ideal family home in tranquil Somerset Park. Situated on this peaceful property in Somerset Park is this beautiful family home. A double carport and an automated double garage which has an interleading door to the main house.

Umhlanga Rocks / R22 million Ref# 1ND1569079

Bedrooms 5 / Bathrooms 5 / Parkings 3 / Embrace the Umhlanga Coast Lifestyle in this exciting new Penthouse release! This Penthouse is a great seaside investment for either tranquil permanent living or a holiday home.

Umhlanga Rocks / R5.85 million Ref# 1ND1586387

Bedrooms 2 / Bathrooms 2 / Parkings 2 / The Umhlanga Arch is known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, state-of-the-art security and modern finishes. This apartment offers another fantastic benefit - dream views and a position.

Glenashley / R9.98 million Ref# 1ND1563805

Bedrooms 7 / Bathrooms 6 / Garages 2 / Flagship of Glenashley. Modern and stylishly designed, master precision built home. Complete perfection with exceptional finishes, overlooking quiet neighbourhood.

“H

ey, do you know where we should go on holiday?” I said.

“Where?” said my partner warily. I knew what she was thinking: that I was going to say “remain here”, but make it sound like “Romania”. I make that joke a lot, mainly because I never really want to go anywhere on holiday.

“We should go to Australia,” I said.

“Australia?” she said. “You said you would never go to Australia.”

“I know.”

“You said there’s nothing there but snakes, skin cancer and Australians.”

“I know.”

“You said that if I ever suspected you’d been abducted by aliens and replaced by a clone, I should suggest we go to Australia on holiday, and if you gave it serious consideration, I would know it wasn’t really you and I should run you over with my car.”

“I know.”

“I have to ask then: are you a clone?”

“No.”

“It’s not necessarily a deal breaker if you are. Maybe you’re an improved model.”

“I’m not a clone,” I said. “There’s just a really good deal on flights to Australia right now.”

“Ah,” she said, with a disappointed expression that said, ‘Yup, it’s you all right’.

If I have any flaw in my character, it’s that I love a bargain. Is that so bad? It saves money!

“It’s not saving money when you buy things you don’t need,” my partner said.

FOOL’S bargain

his face.

“Actually,” I muttered. “I don’t think that was beard oil. I think it was hoisin sauce.”

She does have a point, I guess. Sometimes the thought of saving a little money makes me act foolishly. Once when the petrol price was going up at midnight, I went out to fill up the tank but the queue at the filling station

But how can she say that for sure? I may not need it now, but what about the future? I’m living in four dimensions! Don’t confine me to the present moment.

“What about that halfprice six-pack of beard oil you bought from the Asian supermarket?” she said.

“It was a very good price.”

“You don’t have a beard, and you never will.”

“Oh, you never know.”

“I do know. I’ve seen you try to grow one, and if that ever happens again I will run you over with my car and tell people you were an alien clone.”

I was going to point out that the beard oil was so cheap I can sell it to beardy friends and make a profit, but I remembered I once gave a free sample to my friend Chunko and he said that bees kept trying to swarm around

was so long, it wasn’t worth waiting for the little amount of petrol I needed to put in, so I drove around to empty the tank to make it more worth my while. But that was an aberration. Usually my behaviour is perfectly rational.

“We probably will visit Australia at some point of our lives,” I reasoned with her. “Let’s just get it over with, and at a good price.”

“You do know,” she said, “that once we get there, we’ll need hotel rooms. Do you know how much hotel rooms cost?”

I pondered that. She made a good point, but there is always a solution.

“We could fly there,” I said, “and walk around and see the place, and fly back that same night. That way we’re saving money, and we also don’t have to spend too much time in Australia. Everyone wins!”

“Or you know what we could do?” said my partner. “I’ll go to Australia, you go to Romania.” *

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A GOOD BARGAIN TO GET ME EXCITED, SAYS DARREL BRISTOWBOVEY, BUT IS A BARGAIN A BARGAIN IF I DON’T NEED IT?

If I have any flaw in my character, it’s that I love a bargain. Is that so bad? It saves money!