The Ballito Edition 21 by FabMags

the

a north coast way of life

Rory & Janine

Inspiring Business Couple

Weddings In Ballito PLUS Get to know your bloggers + social scenes + gadgets & more february/march 2013 issue 21 w w w. fa b m a g s . c o . z a

Mar 2013

Ballito

7 GADGETS AND GIZMOS

For the non techno junkies and junkies alike! What is new gadget wise

8 Bloggers profile

Feb 2013

CONTENTS

the

a north coast way of life

Nicole Maurel

10 Iron angel, a reason to smile 13 high society social scene

Spotted out and about in Ballito

18 Red Flamingoes

23 Restaurant Review

Festa La Fiamma

24 Business Profile

Inspiring business couple Rory & Janine Hunt

29 Stuff you should know

Valentine’s day

32 Wedding feature Fairy tale weddings in

Ballito

40 Putting the ‘R’ in romantic 44 Hair Review

Headhunters trendy transformation

45 Spa Review

Canelands Spa

46 Photographer profile

Chris and Emily Allan

50 car review 52 local kids take gold 56 Kids Corner

18 32

58 Health Review

The hills have eyes and the prowler never lies

plus all our regular features on health, property, lifestyle and much much more... Having a social scene? Give us a call to cover it and get the photo’s in the magazine

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Ballito

NOW OPEN in the Ballito/Umhlanga area of the Natal North Coast

Welcome

PUBLISHER Lorinda Scott | lorinda@fabmags.co.za EDITOR Justin Scott | justin@fabmags.co.za GRAPHIC DESIGN Kate Ahrens | kate@fabmags.co.za Daniel Rambaly | daniel@fabmags.co.za SALES Lucille Nagel +27 83 747 3694 IN HOUSE JOURNALIST Storm Catterick | storm@fabmags.co.za ADMIN & ACCOUNTS Sharlene Reddy | sharlene@fabmags.co.za +72 32 946 3187 OFFICE NUMBER +27 32 946 0357 FAX NUMBER 086 605 0098 EMAIL info@fabmags.co.za EDITORIAL ADDRESS Suite 1B Silverstone Way Douglas Crowe Ave | Ballito, KZN front page Chris Allan www.peppermintpix.co.za PRINTING DNA Print (Pty) Ltd

the

A North coAst wAy of lifE

a nORTh COasT way Of lifE OCTOBER/DECEMBER 2012 issuE 19

InspIred

Designers help you design

your dream home

master sign writers meet the team from signzone

mind the gap 1

Think about it for a second. Just how much of our lives are governed or affected by rhythms and cycles? They’re everywhere. Feeding cycles for babies, school terms for parents, tides of the sea when we want to surf, presidential terms (good or bad), seasons of the year, crop cycles for farmers, magazine editions for publishers... One way or another our lives are governed by rhythms and cycles that happen around us that we have little or no influence over. We are a cycle in ourselves, either teens or young adults or young parents or grandparents. Each cycle brings with it rich, new lessons from which we learn and great opportunities to use the gifts given to us and so we grow through these periods of time.

As we head into the early months of the new year, remember that this may be your year to sow rather than to reap, or to maintain rather than to expand. It could be the end of a cycle for you and this is where you need to give it everything you’ve got, because all your hard work over years may be paying off. Whatever it is, we hope that the year ahead works out very well for you and we’ll be here to support you through all of it.

Copyright TheBallito and Fab Mags Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or any part is prohibited without prior permission of the publisher. All products and services featured in this publication are subject to availability and are not stocked by Fab Mags Publications.

IN THIS EDITION DON’T MISS Ballito photographer profile

feature Ballito

Ballito feature

all too often we get home, turn on the tV and watch something less-than-interesting or play on our cell phones! Grab a bottle of wine and some strawberries and head down to the promenade at dusk for a romantic stroll. Find a secluded bench with a great view and let the romance flow.

7: A picnic on the beach

8: Don’t be a Half-job Harold

Pack a delectable but simple picnic basket (nothing’s worse than sand in food, so i would go for tapas), head down to Willard’s or Salt rock Beach and enjoy your surroundings in one of the most beautiful towns in kZN. a celebratory “ching” and a sip of bubbly just because you can, plus a loving smooch as the sun goes down, will leave your woman starry-eyed and irrevocably in love!

one of the most annoying things in the world is having something half done. Yes, we know it adds to your insane obsession with making us see you as more of a “man”, but, newsflash, when you don’t finish a job, it makes you look like a tightarse! Get down to the hardware store and finally fix or finish the DiY job you’ve been procrastinating about for the last two years!

9: A pretend blind date meet your partner at a bar and try to pick each other up as if it’s the first time you’ve ever met. re-invent yourself and get creative. if you can get past the hilariousness of it all, it can really add some zest to a relationship. Ballito has some great classy, intimate bars that offer the perfect setting for a pretend blind date! Simbithi Country Club, karibu, Boathouse, Zimbali etc...

local chris & emily allan

PUTTING THE “R”

photographers to look out for

In the third installment of Photographers to look out for, in which we profile the best of Ballito’s photographers — professionals who we think you could make use of when you want to capture a special moment — we are featuring Chris and Emily Allan, a husband-and-wife creative team who are known for their professionalism and unquestionable skill when it comes to creating magical, everlasting memories. This combination of two creative minds has put them into a league of their own, cementing a name for themselves as Ballito’s photography power couple. They have a passion for each other and for taking beautiful photographs. Specializing in maternal, new-born, child and family photography, they also focus on weddings, travel and corporate photography.Chris and Emily are this month’s local photographers to look out for!

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Photographers to look out for: Local photographers showcasing there work.

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photographer profile Ballito

6: Take a walk on the promenade

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God Bless Justin

PLUS TraveL feaTUre + SociaL SceneS + gadgeTS & more

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents Fab Mags Publications cannot be held responsible for any omission or errors, or for any misfortune, injury or damages that may arise therefrom. TheBallito is published by Fab Mags Publications, Suite 1b, Silverstone Way, Douglas Crowe Road, Ballito, South Africa 4418.

TheBallito

To a great year ahead!

Words Storm CatteriCk

social scenes | health | property focus | gadgets and gizmo’s ballito rocks | coaching for a fitter future

Sometimes we miss the opportunities to reap in a cycle, or we forget to sow when the time is right, but the fortunate thing is that cycles come around again, giving us a new chance to make right what we didn’t or couldn’t the first time round. And when they do, we are smarter, wiser and more able than the first time. Now I can’t tell you how long those rhythms and cycles take as they are different for each of us, but I can tell you that gaining an understanding of where you are in life relative to a cycle, really creates amazing perspective.

Words Storm CatteriCk

JUNE/AUgUst 2012 issUE 17

Life happens in rhythms and cycles. Don’t turn the page if you think I’ve lost my marbles or found some loony, new world rule book — there is a point to this edition’s editor’s letter, I promise. This sage piece of advice came to me from a very close friend as I was contemplating the speed at which things do (or don’t) happen in our lives. While it’s obvious when you think about it, I find that many of us don’t take the time to think about exactly what phase we’re in, in our lives and what is really realistic to expect from that phase. Have I lost you yet? I hope not!

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| 47

1: Throw V-day out of the window

2: Write a poem or a letter

“cheaposity”.

the idea that we should be all “love and hearts” on only one day of the year is hogwash; it’s an escape route for lazy people who feel that they don’t have to show the same sort of spontaneity and romance on any other day. i’m not saying that you have to be on top-form every day, but at least once or twice a month a bit of sparkle and luuurve wouldn’t hurt.

Chocolates and sweets may be the commercialised “go to” ploy of the month but, hello, we’ve just come out of a season where we gorge ourselves into a stupor — we don’t need any more encouragement to grow a bum with its own postal code! a thoughtful letter that reveals your true feelings is something that will make the most discerning woman weak at the knees.

3: Prepare a romantic dinner

4: Rainy days!

there’s nothing like having a night off from cooking and life in general. Get a babysitter to watch the kids, deck the house with candles, flowers (preferably not strewn all over the house coz’ you know who’ll have to clean that up in the morning — and it’s not a magical fairy as many would seem to believe) and a wholesome home-cooked meal with added tLC!

So your plans for adding a bit romance have been ruined. improvise! rent an old black and white classic and snuggle up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate sprinkled with marshmallows and enjoy an intimate moment together. Grab a board game and get your giggle on as your companion tries to cheat his/ her way to success. talk about life, each other and future plans. Communication is cheap, but it’s priceless!

5: Get your Fifty Shades on! (The PG part)

Spoil your special someone this month with something romantic that won’t break the bank! The misconception that bigger is better isn’t always true — it’s the small things that often make the biggest impact and, anyway, these days not all of us can afford to be extravagant and so have to resort to

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10: Full body massage treat your partner to a full body massage. Use sensual fragranced oils, light scented candles (but don’t pull a You, me and Dupree and burn down your house!) and create a mood of relaxation and intimacy. afterwards lead your partner to a hot bubblebath with two glasses of wine next to it. romaNtiC! if you feel like being pampered, too, call organic mobile Spa and enjoy a relaxing couple’s massage done by professionals in the comfort of your own home!

INTO ROMANTIC!!!

i’m not talking about “that” 80 percent of the book — i’m talking about the other 20 percent. e-mail your other half a sweet, sexy, suggestive, surreptitious message that’ll make coming home exciting and something to look forward to. it’s amazing what power the word has on one’s imagination!

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Putting the “R” into Romantic: Spoil your special someone this month with something romantic that won’t break the bank!

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Ballito

Gadgets Ballito

gadgets

gizmos

By Marc Forrest | www.marcforrest.com

TECNO MOBILE N3

Android Smartphone – R999 I recently came across a rather interesting “gadget” in the form of the Tecno Mobile N3 Android Smartphone. You may have never heard of Tecno Mobile, but they are currently one of the fastest growing Mobile handset manufacturers in Africa, with Nigeria & Kenya. Tecno Mobile is based in China and has a range of over 30 different devices aimed at the entry level prepaid market. What astounded me about the N3 Android Smartphone, was that it really didn’t feel or perform like an entry level phone. And at a cost of under R1,000 the phone is a steal for an entry level smartphone device. The Smartphone is quite unique in that it has a dual sim tray, which allows you to use 2 different sim cards. You can also select, through the software, which sim card should be used for your data transfer or which sim card should be used for voice calls. This is a great

option given the fierce competition from cellular network providers these days. The smartphone comes with built in 3G HSDPA, Built in FM Radio, Bluetooth & WiFi as well as fairly impressive 3.0MP camera. The phone comes pre installed with Android 2.3.5 which albeit a bit of an older version of the operating system, definitely doesn’t disappoint. You have full access to the Google Play store which allows you to download over 500,000 apps. The phone comes pre-installed with a number of apps including Whatsapp, Facebook, Gmail, Office Doc viewer & Twitter amongst others.

If you are looking for an entry into the rapidly growing smartphone market, this is the ideal device for you ! The phone is being retailed at R999 and for more information on where to purchase the phone, you can visit http://www.tecnomobile.co.za or email kzn@tecnomobile.co.za

Win

We are giving away a Tecno Mobile N3 Smartphone to a lucky reader. All you need to do is SMS “tecno + Your Name” to 33903

OLLOCLIP iPhone 5

If you haven’t heard of an app called Instagram yet, where have you been?? Instagram is a photography app which can be installed on iPhones & Android devices, which allows you to take photos on the go, edit them & share them instantaneously. The Instagram community is growing rapidly around the world and there are a number of groups being setup where these communities come together and take photos together.

essentially an attachment which you can put on your iPhone and gives you 3 different lens types. The Fish Angle Lens is by far the most popular and adds a whole different dimension to your images, while the Wide Angle works like a charm when taking Panoramic photos. The secret though is the Macro lens, which can often take photos of things you never imagined seeing with the naked eye.

One of my favourite gadgets for my iPhone is the Olloclip. The Olloclip is

The quality of the Olloclip is undeniably the best in the world and images are

Win 6|

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crystal clear when processed. This is an amazing add on for any iPhone, and at R899 it’s a bargain. For more info & to see some of the great Olloclip images taken in SA or if you would like to purchase the olloclip you can visit http:// www.iPhoneographySA.com

We are also giving away an Olloclip to a lucky reader of the Gadgets & Gizmos column. Simply SMS “Ollclip + Your Name” to 33903

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Ballito Bloggers profile

Get to know

your bloggers

Nicole Maurel

, 33,

photographer ,

doula, home-schooling mom

and BLOGGER. w w w. n i b b i t h e n e rd . w o rd p re ss . co m These days people who have something to share, blog it! In the next couple editions we will be featuring some of Ballito’s best bloggers who have something interesting to say and are well worth the read! Want to get your blog featured email storm@fabmags.co.za. Tell us about your blog? I started blogging because I felt it was pointless to journal where no one could read or benefit from what I was going through as a mother. Since then, my idea of what I would like to “put out there” has grown and changed and I’ve branched out from just writing about parenting to incorporating aspects of my own life into my blog, with ideas such as decor, photography, home-schooling, babies, crafting, thrifting, etc. Why a blog? I love blogs. I love following other people’s lives and learning from them. I started blogging because I have something to say and I would like others to hear it and maybe, just maybe, I might inspire someone. Future of your blog? My hope is that my blog will inspire many. I would like to reach a far wider audience and with that in

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mind, I am currently working on a redesign, new content and a re launch in early February. Blogs you love? I follow www.emmajanenation.com, www.kellehampton.com, www.abeautifulmess.com, www.timcoulson.com, www.thebeetleshack.com and www.loveliesinmylife.com, to name but a few.

CY Books on your bedside table? I always have an array. At the CMY moment it is Baby Sense by Megan K Faure and Anne Richardson, Baby Wise by Ezzo and Bucknam, To My Daughter in France by Barbara and Stephanie Keating, Mother and Daughter Knits by Sally Melville and Caddy Melville Ledbetter, Snow is My Favourite and My Best by Lauren Child, a child psychology text book, my Bible and numerous magazines.

Fave shops? I love Cotton On, Exclusive Books, Jay Jays, Earth Child, second-hand shops and our very own Ballito SPCA charity shop. 7. Latest Obsession? Ceramics and Instagram. 8. Fave Destination? In South Africa, I have to say Cape Town and Clarens. The world is large and there are many places I would love to go to.

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Ballito Give back

VISIT OUR BALLITO DESIGN LAB TODAY!

iron angel

Proudly brought to you by

Words Storm Catterick

A Reason to Smile

itting at the Iron Angel gym and watching this happy baby boy play with his mom, you’d never guess that at the age of seven months he’s endured more challenges than most of us have had in our whole lives. Carter Ash Seymour, son of Iron Angel owners Nicole and Gary Seymour, is just like any other healthy, happy baby — the only difference is that he was born with a cleft lip and palate.

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ur ? Is yo mpliant more co us for

Operation Smile is a non-profit company that supports these people and provides free surgeries for both children and adults throughout Africa. “We want to help mothers who have a child with a cleft lip or palate that don’t have the necessary information or resources to help their child. We also want to create awareness that, by supporting Operation Smile, “anyone can help change a child’s life forever” says Nicole. With this aim in mind, Iron Angel’s Nicole and Gary have decided to run a challenge at the gym, the proceeds from which will go towards this worthy cause. After all, everyone has a right to smile!

· We will help you with establishing your all inclusive development budget for your new home Opening times: Monday to Friday 08.00 - 16.30 Weekends: by appointment only.

Contact Hayley: 083 649 2190 or 032 946 1110 The Design Lab,1st Floor, The Ballito Buzz, Ballito Office Park, Moffat Road, Ballito Kzn.

DESIGN LAB ADVERT 2 200x143 FABMAGS.indd 1

Iron Angel strongly believes in giving back to the community and to those in need. We have chosen to support Operation Smile Foundation and will be donating R20 for every 1kg lost by all Ballito residents participating in the Reason to Smile Fitness Challenge. Every 3 minutes a child is born with a cleft. Since 1982, more than 130 000 children have been treated by thousands of volunteers and medical professionals globally.

1/14/13 9:49 AM

gift of a lifetime of smiles to a precious child. Step 1 – Register free of charge at Iron Angel Ballito. Step 2 – Approach sponsors and friends to pledge to donate an amount for every kilo you loose during the 12 week fitness challenge period.

laser sure

Step 3 – Drop kilos! Start walking, running, cycling or join us at Iron Angel 3 times per week for our free of charge A reason to Smile fitness challenge boot camp.

Please join us in supporting this worthwhile cause and help give the

ic B

For more info find us on

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· Range of home finishes from top quality suppliers on display for you to view and choose from, based on your personal budget

CONSIDER DEVELOPING YOUR HOME WITH US…

Picn

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· A place to meet the architect and our team to discuss your plans in a welcoming and comfortable environment

tact on. Con formati in

Most people don’t realise that this is a very common occurrence, affecting one in every 750 babies in Africa and is more common in boys. The defect happens in the early stages of pregnancy and the most important thing for healthy mothers like Nicole to accept is that the cause is unknown and that the condition cannot be prevented — this is not your fault. “I believe that things happen for a reason. God gave him to us because he knew we could handle it and grow stronger from it,” says Nicole. Babies born with a cleft lip or cleft palate or both, are generally corrected shortly after birth in areas with sufficient access to health care. However, for many children in rural areas around the world, medical treatment is not available. Often these children are unable to eat, speak, or breathe properly. Due to low self-esteem, as well as feelings of isolation, these children often live as social outcasts. In some places these children are shunned and rejected. And in too many cases, their parents can’t afford to give them the surgeries they need to live a normal life.

Set up an appointment to discuss your new home with our Development & Interior Design professionals:

Iron Angel Ballito

ask

ets

ava

ilab

acilitie

nce F

re Confe

lands

Scrump

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tious Cu

Spa @ Th

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Luxury

Accom

dation le The most elegant and exclusive retreat overlooking the ocean. Our restaurant offers a sublime menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Spoil yourself with a world class spa treatment or book a special ‘stay and spa’ treat. For a romantic wedding, cocktails on the beach & sand between your toes. There is no place so close to the sea. Hotel & Restaurant | Tel: 032 525 2300 | Email: info@thecanelands.co.za Beach Club & Spa | Tel: 032 525 4835 | Email: spa@thecanelands.co.za Address: 2 Shrimp Lane, Salt Rock w w w. fa b m a g s . c o . z a www.canelandssaltrock.co.za

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Tiffanyʼs Tiffanyʼs

Ballito

HIGH SociETY

BEEN SPOTTED? email us and we’ll send you a complimentary copy of your photo

CONVENIENCE SHOPPING SHOPPINGCONVENIENCE

EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS ALONG THE NORTH COAST

HAVING A LAUNCH, EVENT OR SOMETHING SOCIAL YOU WANT US TO COVER? EMAIL US AT EDITOR@FABMAGS.CO.ZA

it isit the retail attraction onon the North Coast that Everyone is talking about is the retail attraction the North Coast that Everyone is talking about

shopping destination that offers convenience and variety shopping destination that offers convenience and variety at the gateway to Salt Rock, Sheffield and Umhlali. ThisThis at the gateway to Salt Rock, Sheffield and Umhlali. upmarket centre upmarket centre Tiffany’s is ais a Tiffany’s

hosts thethe latest concept in SuperSpar stores brimming with fresh, quality hosts latest concept in SuperSpar stores brimming with fresh, quality goods. One can find ATM banking, restaurants, health, beauty, fashion goods. One can find ATM banking, restaurants, health, beauty, fashion and other exciting stores. WeWe have ample parking both upstairs and in our and other exciting stores. have ample parking both upstairs and in our spacious cool basement with liftslifts forfor easy access. spacious cool basement with easy access.

Simply put, Tiffany’s offers youyou a world class, Simply put, Tiffany’s offers a world class,

PetWise

one-stop shopping experience right on on your doorstep. one-stop shopping experience right your doorstep.

the party

Petwise opening at Lifestyle Centre, invited guests, clients and suppliers had a ball !

The people

1. Mark Pearse, Mariana Herselman & Dr Gerry Retief 2. Angelique, Zeba & Danys Wright 3. Sharon Cossey, Rene & Laurie Lammerse 4. Delene Buchanan. & Linde Hoyle 5. Wendy Fischer & Belinda Bolte 6. George Bertram & Angud Herselman 7. Diane Swart, Vanessa Ashby & Jody van Wyk 8. Trudy Mason & Belinda Osrin

the highlight

Prizes and giveaways!! And the cutest doggie Zeba attended, bling and all.

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Enjoy love Enjoy with love with a taste of thai. a taste of thai.

Shop 22, Tiffany’s Shop Centre, Rock Centre, Salt Rock 22,Salt Tiffany’s Reservations: 032Reservations: 525 4013 032 525 4013 yumthaisaltrock@gmail.com yumthaisaltrock@gmail.com

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Old Main Road Rock (just offoff the N2) Old Main Road| |Salt Salt Rock (just the N2)

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032 032 525 525 77467746 Cool Air Air Cool Fashion Fashion 084 084 680 680 76007600

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Ballito

scene

cial

Imbizo

Jenergy Year End Function

the party

Internationally renowned artist Kim Donaldson exhibited his work at Imbizo Gallery at the Lifestyle Centre on Thursday, December 13th for the fist time in South Africa since 1987.

The Zimbali ladies wanted to thank Jenni for all her hard work in training the girls and getting them fit through Jenni’s revolutionary High 8’s method. And just in time for Summer!

The people

9. John Syme & Nikki Kirkland 10. Kate Ahrens & Daniel Rambaly 11. Nicole, Lydia & Kim Donaldson 12. Patricia Lewis & Mark Whitfield 13. Vanessa Ashby & Isabel Roos 14. Painting by Kim Donaldson 15. Lucille Nagel & Storm Catterick 16. Nicolene Nieuwoudt &Nico Roos

The people 11

the highlight

His message and passion for Africa, the people and animals within it has remained irrepressible. Kim’s story captivated thousands in his book, Africa, An Artist’s Journal, which took him almost five years to complete.

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17. Belinda McArthur & Coralie Coetzee 18. Duncan McArthur, Jenni Rivett & Belinda McArthur 19. Jenni Rivett 20. Caryn Pottas & Lisa Opperman 21. Patricia Lewis & Jenni Rivett 22. Coralie Coetzee, Dalene Bailey & Caryn Pottas 23. Rashmini Singh & Manuella Botha 24 . Patricia Lewis & her son Max

the highlight 13

Jenni Rivett even tucked into a decadent slice of Zoete Zonde cake, proving that you can look fabulous and enjoy your food too.

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scene

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Ballito Cooking

Business profile Ballito

with Class – Let our Executive Chef, Sylvester Nair tantalize your taste buds…

The Design Lab Cooking with Class – Contemporary Cuisine

032 946 1110 3 649 2190 or 08 y: le ay H Contact Ballito Buzz, t Floor, The 1s b, La n ig Ballito Kzn. The Des Moffat Road, k, ar P ce ffi O Ballito

Join us for our 3 course cooking demo’s Saturday from 19h00 – 21h00 Tea/coffee station available Classes start 4th May 2013 Goodie bag on arrival

R185-00 per person

subject to availability – bookings essential

For further information, please contact us on the below details

HEALTHPOINTE 2.0 Healthpointe is not a diet, nor does it utilise any dietary pills or popular fads and quick fixes.

The cost of the program is R3299.00 which includes: * The Healthpointe 2.0 Program * Pedometer * Educational DVD & CD * Food diary * Organic Vitamins, minerals & phyto-nutrients for 31 days * Nutrilite Omega 3 for 90 days * Nutrilite Fibre for 90 days * 18 protein bars * Coaching & support

Healthpointe works by teaching the body to gradually burn fat stores to utilise as energy. Once the desired weight-loss has been achieved, the body is further trained through the scientific nature of the program to stabilize at a new lean weight and to remain at the optimum weight for a lifetime through a process called metabolic adjustment (the body is introduced to more food while still being able to efficiently burn the same rate of energy as during the weight-loss phase, thereby maintaining a leaner weight). The result is that weight-loss is rapid and the results are sustainable and long-lasting. The program consists of a six week cycle that includes four weeks of weight-loss and two weeks of metabolic adjustment. The average weight-loss that clients can expect on the program is 6kgs, however men can expect to lose up to 10kgs and women can expect to lose up to 7kgs. The program consists of eating three balanced meals a day plus snacks, as well as drinking adequate amounts of clean water and using supplementation that will further nourish and replenish the body during the weight-loss period.

magine being able to satisfy all your interior décor needs in a single store! Well, stop imagining, because Design Lab in Ballito can take care of all of that and more!

available to make this dream a reality, the team put the idea into practice, started pulling together suppliers and service providers and the rest, as they say, is history.

The Design Lab is a concept born in response to the needs of clients wanting to create a home on a modernday lifestyle estate. This is something that far too often is a hugely stressful and complex process and there is a dire need for clients to be able to come to a pleasant and comfortable environment, where a team of home development professionals can interact with them throughout the planning and construction phases in order to make their dreams a reality. At the same time clients should be able to view, touch and compare various products against one another in order to find the perfect fit for both their tastes and budget.

To be able to choose from a quality range of finishes on display whilst being assisted by the Design Lab team is a huge benefit and, in fact, it is imperative to the process. Now clients can spec their new home, from paint to flooring to san-ware and kitchens, with products that can be found under one roof. Critical to any home development is getting your budget in place up-front and also understanding all the costs that go into a home development. This is a free service that Design Lab offers customers.

And this is what the Design Lab is all about. When the space finally became

The Design Lab also provides an opportunity for suppliers to show off their products and services in a space that is open to clients and other professionals, as well as the general

public. The products on show cover the full spectrum for a new home development. Some of the main businesses that currently make up Design Lab include Audio Excellence (home audio and automation), Floor Smart (carpets, laminate and vinyl flooring), Creative Timber Worx (decking andbalustrades), Q Lite (lighting and ceiling fans) and On Tap (sanware). Suppliers include: Eclipse Group, INSO, Classwood, Plascon, NMC, Decor Connect, Silk By Design, Jay Weeks Ceiling and Partitions, GCLSA, Lovisa and Sons, Coastal Kitchens, Marksman, Colours of Africa, Supertrack, Pringle Saw Mills and Glassfit.

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Ballito feature

The Red

Flamingoes

1. Tell us about the Red Bull Flugtag Competition? The Red Bull Flugtag is a fun event where “self-taught” pilots (and some real ones, too) fly homemade aircraft off a 6-metre high jetty at the V & A Waterfront in Cape Town. It is an “airshow” where teams have to create human-powered planes, using environmentally friendly materials. 2. What made you decide to enter? The advert video looked like such fun, so we assembled a team and filled in the online application. We then waited impatiently for any news from the organizers. 3. How do you get selected to “test” your “plane”? We received a phone call to confirm the address and a day later a courier company delivered a nicely packaged cardboard suitcase with a “passport” and a large piece of sketch paper. We met with our engineer, tested all the new Red Bull flavours (watered them down, of course!) and got stuck into the books. We had bird books, books on the principles of flight and books with lots of pictures. The boys got quite creative and we got our entry in before the deadline, which was then extended, leaving us to wait even longer before we heard that the organisers really loved our entry. We were one of 42 teams selected from the 440 official entry packs received.

f you’ve ever watched this event on SuperSport, you will know that it’s ridiculously funny, yet at the same time gives you that “Oohhh, ahhhh, ouch!” feeling as the guys and girls come crashing down in their homemade planes. For those of you who have never been witness to these crazy antics, the event sees some real —and some not-so-real — pilots flying homemade man-powered “aircrafts” off a 6-metre high jetty. This year the event was held in S.A at the V & A Waterfront in Cape Town, which luckily for them S.A has no shortfall of adrenalin junkies. Genie Raatz, Shaun Joffe, Tim Lyle and Cuan Rootman made up one of many eager teams from around the world to enter and they represented their town with what they called The Red FlaminGoes. We chatted to them to discover the story behind it.

4. How did the design and building process of the plane work and what was the idea behind the red flamingo? The name was made up in a hurry while doing the online application. Birds flew first, so we knew we wanted to build a bird. Initially it was going to be an Indian Mynah (us being from Durban and all), but we decided that a Flamingo was long and goofy-looking. The design process was fun. The boys were thirsty during the build and the late nights in the garage saw some great laughs. A good friend, Bill Yeo, shared his knowledge of and passion for aeroplanes with us. He helped us build a really long, wide and totally realistic-looking aircraft. He took us flying in his private plane, too — scared our flamingo pilot a little, but he overcame that.

5. Who were your sponsors? Any local help? We had a lot of support from the community, people were genuinely enthusiastic when we got talking about it and some even chipped in to help cover the costs. As the build went on, people saw how serious we were and helped where they could. Digit Vehicle Tracking bought most of the materials we needed at a discounted price from Build It Ballito. We had a brilliant dance routine worked out for us by Sugardance Studios that helped us earn more points. The Grandstand Pub came to/and hosted the party as well. And then a few good people contributed in their private capacity. We’re very grateful to all of them — the moms, dads and friends that either pulled spanners, painted or put money into the kitty. Thanks for helping us to be a part of this event. 6. How did you represent Ballito at the competition? We made sure we were noticed. The Red FlaminGo stood proud amongst some weird and wicked entries. The Emcee at the event, Sias du Plessis, had been to school in the area and made a point of telling the massive Cape Town crowd where we came from. 7. What was the end result of the competition and where did you come? The only official results were 1st, 2nd and 3rd, which we didn’t crack. The winners flew 17m while the Red FlaminGo flew 15.8m. The other two teams had a form of catapult that earned them points for creativity. The team that came 3rd launched their pilot 20m plus. So it wasn’t all about distance. We were one of four teams to get a combined score of over 40 points from the judges, so we know we were right up there with the leaders.

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8. Will you be going back next year? Unfortunately not. It is not an annual event, it’s a bit of a travelling show that was last in South Africa eight years ago. With our experience now and the amount of fun we had, we may be thinking international, though. The Red FlaminGo will fly again. 9. Tips for anyone wanting to enter? Have a good time with your friends, come up with something crazy and fly, through the smokescreen of impossibility.

Tel: 032 586 0889 Address: Shop 62, Ballito Bay Mall Bernard Haberl: 082 924 8478 Email Bernard@bernardsjewellery.co.za

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business profile Ballito

Ballito

MY TOWN

Ballito Gymnastics Words Storm Catterick

Bigger and Better in Umhlali

t has been less than a year since Ballito Gymnastics first opened and, after a very successful start and to cater for a growing need in the area, they have moved to a bigger and better premises where they continue to offer their gymnasts top quality gymnastics training. The initial idea was to create a gym aimed mainly at recreational gymnastics as no one knew what the need or response would be from people in Ballito. From the start, the number of aspiring gymnasts grew exponentially and Ballito Gymnastics, hit their second-year target within a few months. They are amazed at the pool of talent in the area, remarking that a quarter of their gymnasts have gone on to be competitive gymnasts and that most will end up competing this year. The new — and, may I just add, awesome, gym is now located on the road on the way to the school in Umhlali. “We could not find premises in Ballito that were large enough until we found this, which is perfect, as it has 450-square metres of open gym space,” says Kim. The new space allows for more toilets, a home work area and a waiting area for

children waiting for classes, plus they are able to double up on all their apparatus. They have taken on a new assistant coach, Tamlyn Logan, who is an ex-Junior Springbok artistic gymnast. They also plan to build a play area. Something that Shaun feels is imperative for parents to know, is the importance of long-term athlete development. They want to inform people about the huge benefits offered by gymnastics. “When we were at school people on the whole were a lot more physical. Nowadays people sit much more as everything is ‘computerised’, what with PlayStation, Wii, etc. Although there are a lot of sports available, at primary school level in particular it is important to get a child into a sport and keep them in it if they are to develop and grow. You can’t make them try new sports every term and expect them to become really good at anything,” says Coach Shaun. His advice is to find out what your child is good at and then encourage them and make them stick with it because, if you want your child to be competitive and good at a sport, one term is not going to develop the right set of skills for them. The nice thing about gymnastics is that if

you choose that alongside another sport, it increases your chances of becoming good at it on a competitive level. Gymnastics teaches you excellent handeye coordination, how to stretch and warm up properly to prevent injuries in the future and core strength. These skills will only really come into play or be “visible” when your child reaches high school, so you need to let them persevere and develop their skills properly to get results. Kim and Shaun’s mission is for their gymnasts to grow with them, much like you grow in a family. Gymnastics is a life skill and a skill you will carry into adulthood as the foundation for your body. ”In gymnastics you become well-rounded and balanced and also more aware of how to use your body. Everything you learn, from your core strength to holding your back straight, will help support your body as an adult and improve your quality of life,” says Shaun So what does 2013 hold for Ballito Gymnastics? Well, Kim and Shaun are very excited as their first large batch of Level 1-3’s are going to be competing for the KZN Cup at SAGF (South African Gymnastics Federation) competitions.

Tel: 072 219 0387 www.ballitogymnastics.co.za

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Restaurant review Ballito

Ballito

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ttimo ristorante! Eating at La Fiamma Grill an Italian experience to remember and, when I had the pleasure of eating there, I discovered that instead of just the traditional pasta dishes, the restaurant specializes in a wide variety of foods, leaving your mouth watering as you read through the menu, which features everything from juicy steaks to seafood. La Fiamma Grill started as a B&B, a family business that the owners slowly grew into a superb restaurant which opened two years ago. What may come as a surprise to many people is that the restaurant is very family-orientated, with a pool and jungle gym, helping to keep the kids happy. The ambiance in the restaurant is what you make it — be it a romantic date or a meal with family or friends, you will feel comfortable and welcome. The restaurant is spacious, with a lounge area where one can sit and relax over cocktails. There is also ample room between the tables so you can move around without bumping into anyone at the next table (my pet hate!).

The décor is modern, with many elements to feast your eyes on. The evening I went to La Fiamma Grill, I was warmly welcomed by the manager and owner, Fabien Deurocher-yvon, who showed us to our table and offered us an excellent bottle of wine, Haute Cabriere Chardonnay Pinot Noir, a crisp dry white wine that flowed throughout the evening.

For starters we ordered two dishes, the Gamberetti Al Forno, which was deliciously succulent, consisting of generous-sized prawns with a to-diefor sauce with a perfect balance of cheese and other flavours. The other starter that we shared was the Filetto Di Peperoncino (a must-have) which comes in full and starter portions. The tender strips of fillet were seasoned with an imaginative mix of chilli, garlic and Italian sauce and served with freshlybaked mini rolls. During the starters it started pouring with rain, but the restaurant is so well-enclosed that there was no need to put on a jacket to keep warm.

— the side orders, come in bowls which can be passed around the table to share. First we had the fish of the day, which was perfectly prepared and fell off the bone beautifully, with side orders of basil and pesto mash (divine) and spinach. Second we had grilled calamari — absolutely delicious — with a side order of Greek salad NOT full of lettuce, but perfectly balanced. The BEST part of the evening was the dessert! I am a dessert kind of girl and this dessert blew my mind! Lindt chocolate wrapped in phyllo pastry, with balls of vanilla ice-cream with a tot of Amarula. My mouth waters just remembering how all the elements fused together! In my opinion, La Fiamma Grill is THE restaurant to go to in Ballito. The prices are competitive and there is amazing food as well as friendly service — a package deal g’ buonissimo! Tel: 032 946 1029 Website: www.lafiamma.co.za

When ordering your main course, you order a main portion like steak, fish, calamari, etc, but — my favourite feature w w w. fa b m a g s . c o . z a

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Business Ballito

Ballito Business

Business couple

to be admired Words Storm Catterick

n keeping with February being the month of love, this edition’s interview with a successful local entrepreneur is not with one person, but rather with a couple who we at The Ballito believe are not only doing something right in our beautiful town but, most importantly, doing it together. Sitting with us in the natural beauty that surrounds Sage in Salt Rock, is a couple that are not only husband and wife, business partners and mother and father to their children, but also people that have been able to remain best friends -Rory and Janine Hunt! Their attitude towards business, life and family is something to be admired and has given their eatery and beauty salon in the Sage Centre a heartbeat that encapsulates all that living in a town like this should be. Tell us a bit about your background? Rory has always been in the restaurant industry, and I have been in the beauty industry for most of my working career. We previously lived in Johannesburg and used to come to the coast for holidays. We left Johannesburg to get out of the rat race. Our first restaurant was Zucchini at the Lifestyle Centre but after having our son we soon realised that running a night-time restaurant and raising a family were not really compatible. A couple of years later we came across a piece of land and decided to open a coffee shop and a beauty salon because we realised there was a need for a place for families in the area — somewhere where moms can not only have a beauty treatment, but where they can enjoy a really good meal whilst their children get to have good old-fashioned outdoor fun.

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these days are people who come down on holiday and see Ballito as a booming town. Once open, they realise that it’s not quite as easy as they thought. We went into business with the idea that we’d offer something completely unique. There is nothing quite like our business in Ballito — we’re out in the open, we’re kid-friendly and there are different things to do. We also try to make our menu different and not to offer just the same unimaginative stuff. We are very aware that times are tough, so at the Sage Centre we like to keep our prices affordable and give value for money. Some say that the first rule of business is never to work with your partner or a family member, so how do you guys make it work so well? We’ve worked together since we met so it’s really all we know. And, being in the industries we are in, if we didn’t work together we wouldn’t see much of each other. We each have our own separate businesses within the Sage Centre, though, so we each have our own space. When you do get time to relax, what do you like to do? Family-time is big for us and we like to spend as much time together as possible. Luckily for us we live in a town with the beach on our doorstep, so we often spend time with the kids at Four Poles or anywhere in the outdoors. We really appreciate the kind of life you can have here, we live in a little piece of paradise. How do you keep your home life and work life separate? I think that when you have kids you are forced to switch-off and spend time with them, chatting about their day and what they learnt or helping them with their homework.

What brought you to Ballito? We needed a lifestyle-change that would allow for Rory to be able to spend time with his family but still be able to do what he loves. We’ve lived in Ballito for about eight years now and we haven’t looked back. It’s a great environment to live and work in.

So, between work and kids, how do you manage to keep the romance alive? We try and have a date-night at least once a week and we try to go away without the kids sometimes, which helps us to connect on a different level while the kids get to spend time with granny and grandpa and get spoilt rotten for a weekend.

There have been a lot of fly-by-night cafes and restaurants that have opened and closed — what do you think has kept your doors open? We have noticed over the last couple of years that there has been an increase in coffee shops and restaurants in Ballito. I think that a lot of people who open restaurants

What are the values and principles by which you live and run your business? We are both very honest and dedicated. We realise that to run something successful you must treat the people who work for you with respect. We promote growth from within our businesses so, if you are willing to learn, you

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Business Ballito

Ballito

I think that when you have kids you are forced to switch-off and spend time with them, chatting about their day and what they AUTOMATION & LIGHTING CONTROL

learnt or helping them with their homework

can go from a being dish-washer to being a therapist in the salon or a chef in the restaurant. We have staff that have been working with us for nearly eight years. What you put in, be it in business or in life, is what you get out. What do you think makes Sage different from any other place? Well, the environment speaks for itself, but I think it’s the fact that you can do a bit of shopping at Willow, Dragonfly, Happi Days and Pure, go and get pampered at Shine whilst your kids have fun on the jungle gym, or sit outside and have a bite to eat and catch up with friends. The tenant mix is great and we all share the same vision and drive. We are also very hands-on and know our customers and our staff. So what is in the future for you and the Sage Centre? We have a lot of exciting plans. We are going to be adding six new shops — a sort of farmers market where you can get fresh, locally-produced produce, a butchery, a bakery and a deli. We have a hair salon coming in, a kids’ furniture shop, a small medical centre and a pottery studio for kids and their parents. We’re also looking at doing “canopy tours” through the trees and other fun stuff to suit the eight to 14-year-old age-bracket.

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Quick facts Fave place to eat breakfast We love The Oyster Box — the setting and location are unbelievable and everything, down to the bathrooms, is beautiful! Fave place for dinner Fiamma Grill — Fabien is a helluva nice guy and so hands-on. Fave beach: Four Poles. It’s not busy and it’s a beautiful beach, plus we can take the dogs down. w w w. fa b m a g s . c o . z a

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Stuff you should know Ballito

Ballito

Richard

Where did it all come from?

There are various theories on the origin of Valentine's Day, but the most popular dates back to the time of the Roman Empire during the reign of Claudius II, 270 AD.

Claudius didn't want men to marry during wartime because he believed single men made better soldiers.

Bishop Valentine went against his wishes and performed secret wedding ceremonies. For this, Valentine was jailed and then then executed by order of the Emperor on February 14. While in jail, he wrote a love note to the jailor's daughter signing it, "From your Valentine." Sound familiar?

58 Million

A kiss on Valentine's Day is said to bring good luck all year.

pounds of chocolate are bought during valentine’s week.

produced the first box of chocolates for Valentine's Day in the late 1800's.

1 billion

One billion valentines are sent each year worldwide, making it the second largest card-sending holiday of the year behind Christ.

448 Million 448 million dollars are spent on candy the week before Valentine’s day in the U.S.

Valentine’s day 27%

women

73% men

Buy flowers for Valentines day

Sales of condoms and contraceptive pills are higher during Valentine's week.

The most fantastic gift of love is the Taj Mahal in India. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan as a memorial to his wife.

love

friendship sweetheart

young love

pure love

admiration love

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Flowers given during Valentine's Day have different meanings. Red roses mean love, yellow roses mean friendship, and pink roses mean friendship or sweetheart. Red carnations mean admiration, white carnations mean pure love, red chrysanthemums mean love, and primrose means young love.

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Ballito FEATURE

breakfast

Bonanza all for R42.50

picture Framing Specialists & art Gallery since 1965

opeNiNG SpeCialS

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Words Storm Catterick and Sonja Watson

10 T

his year marks the 10th anniversary of the fabulous Mokka Blooms in the Lifestyle Centre, the pride and joy of Sonja Watson. From corporate girl to “flower girl”, Sonja has had an all-consuming passion for floristry which she has passed on to her team, who collectively have over 40 years’ experience in the industry. Sonja and her family, as she calls her team, specialize in wedding, hotel, corporate and in-house arrangements, but the list goes on! As this edition is all about love and marriage, we thought it only fitting to get Sonja’s expert advice on the important things to take into consideration when choosing flowers for your wedding. 1. Style Choose the flowers and style of arrangement to reflect your own personal taste and style. 2. Florist Choose a florist that understands what you want — and can deliver!

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1. FEGO BREAKFAST – 2 Eggs, Bacon, sausage, grilled cherry tomatoes, pan fried brown mushrooms & toast 2. SPICY SCRAMBLED EGGS – With jalapenos, avocado (seasonal), cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, sautéed onions, cheddar cheese, served with toasted French baguette & a creamy caramelised onion dip. 3. CRISPY BACON FRITTATA (open Omelette) – Sundried tomatoes, baby spinach, roasted peppers, crispy streaky bacon, served with a caramelised onion dip & toasted French baguette.

plUS…selected framed decor art and bevelled mirrors at leSS 25% PLUS... selected framed decor art and bevelled mirrors at LESS 20%

3. Budget Decide what your budget is and ask your florist to give you an idea of what you can get for that. There are must-haves with flowers and there are items that can be left out, if need be. 4. Season Try to work with the flowers in season. Ask your florist what is particularly lovely at the time of your wedding. Some flowers are available all year round, but are more gorgeous at some times of the year. 5. Bridal bouquet Choose a bridal bouquet that suits your dress, size and height. If your build is slight and your dress elaborate, you should probably choose a small, simple bouquet. 6. Corsages Ask the moms and grannies if they prefer pin-on corsages or wrist corsages. It is advisable to keep them all in a neutral colour that will work with all the dress colours.

7. Venue Choose arrangements and designs that suit the venue and its decor. 8. Table arrangements If you want tall arrangements, be careful not to make them too big, otherwise people cannot talk over them and they (the arrangements) end up on the floor! Also, make sure that they are high enough for guests to be able to see under them. 9. Fragrance Be careful not to choose flowers that are too fragrant. 10. Thank you gifts Give away your table arrangements to guests as thank you gifts. That way they get to be appreciated and admired for much longer. Ask your florist for suggestions.

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wedding feature Ballito

Ballito wedding feature

Weddings

DD D HU IDGI R B ND ON A 2012 OGS P TE BER K M C I E R ESTA C DER EEN 7 DE : 1 H E : S L F I G P OLL DIN HA O COU WED BOT SE, C F U N O O N H Y DATE ND L CHID RIS A E: OR H U C N : IT VE HY RED RAP TO C OTOG H PHO P NN ISLY CHR

Words Storm Catterick

Bridgid & Derrick

e know that it is every girl’s dream to have an amazing, fairy tale wedding, where she rides off with her Prince Charming on a magical white steed (now a very expensive car or limo) into a magnificent sunset to live the time-honoured “happily ever after”. We know that finding a place for the magic to happen can be tiring, frustrating and depressing, so we have gone out and found four couples who found their “happily ever after” in the best wedding venues the beautiful town of Ballito has to offer! Who knows, maybe after reading these experiences you, too, can have your dream wedding!

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WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE BALLITO FOR YOUR WEDDING? The proximity to home and the beautiful surroundings, away from the city. WHAT SOLD YOU ON THE VENUE? Small, intimate with everything in one place . . . and the trees. Derrick wanted to get married under a tree! DID EVERYTHING MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS AND WAS IT EVERYTHING THAT YOU HAD IMAGINED? It far exceeded our expectations! We had a wonderful time spent with our family and friends in the most beautiful surroundings.

WHAT WAS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR WEDDING? Being able to relax and really enjoy celebrating with close friends and family in a magical setting while somebody else was doing the running around. IF SOMEONE HAD TO ASK WHAT IT WAS LIKE AS A WEDDING VENUE AND WHY THEY SHOULD GET MARRIED THERE, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO THEM? Fabulous venue — as a small venue it has everything in one place and nobody has far to travel. Jo, the coordinator, made it all so easy for us and we didn’t have to stress about anything. Nothing was too much trouble.

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Ballito

Ballito wedding feature

LEY OOD MM 010 A S ER 2 L AND CTOB VAN HOTE O I V 0 E : 3 U : E Q I L G T P IN OU COU EDD R 44 B ABE OF W ARD V E HA M L DATE T U N O A B SAM UE: VEN DIT: CRE O T O PH

remember to say “I love you” or take time out for your husband/wife, so to have something to constantly remind you that you need to make time, is priceless.

Vivan & Sam WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE BALLITO FOR YOUR WEDDING? We moved to Ballito five years ago and just love it! We wanted to bring the family to “our home”. We also found Boulevard 44 in Ballito to be the perfect venue for the type of wedding we wanted. WHAT SOLD YOU ON THE VENUE? It’s so tranquil. It truly is a “hidden gem”! The structural features and serenity of the place gave it that little bit more individuality than anything we had seen! DID YOU HAVE A SPECIFIC THEME? The theme I had in mind initially was “vintage”. I’ve always loved lace, dusty

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pink, romantic rusted birdcages — simple but elegant. I had an amazing team of insanely talented ladies who did the décor, flowers and set-up. I basically told them exactly what I wanted, had one meeting with them and walked into my dream wedding. WHAT WAS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR WEDDING? I have to say having the photos taken. To be able to look back at our albums and reminisce about that special day, to be able to talk about our special day with our children and for them to see how much we love each other is something that I will treasure forever. It’s hard to always

ARE YOUR PHOTOS A TRUE REFLECTION OF YOU AND YOUR HUBBY AND THE DAY YOU HAD? Definitely! Samantha Maber is amazing and she has done so many photo shoots for us (not that we are celebrities or anything! Ha ha). She was there for our pregnancy shoot, engagement shoot, wedding and family photo shoot. She always has a way of making you feel so comfortable in front of the camera and, to be honest, hubby and I were having such a laugh throughout the whole thing! IF SOMEONE HAD TO ASK WHAT IT WAS LIKE AS A WEDDING VENUE AND WHY THEY SHOULD GET MARRIED THERE, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO THEM? All I would say is that they should go and see the place — it’s breath-taking! One of my big concerns was drinking and driving for our guests and we were able to have everyone stay over, which was a win! The place is just beautiful! I could go on and on about it but, trust me, have a look at it and it speaks for itself.

OOYE LLY B A S AND 012 ART ER 2 TEW S CTOB M O O T 6 : 2 ITO G: PLE BALL COU DDIN DGE, F WE UEL O O L Q E I I L DAT RUN B MBA I I Z K : C E IT: JA VENU CRED O T O PH

Tom & Sally WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE BALLITO FOR YOUR WEDDING? Tom and I live in London but as I am South African we always knew that SA would be the place for our special day. We have spent many wonderful holidays with my family in Natal and knew we wanted the spectacular Natal coastline as the backdrop for our big day. Ballito was an ideal location with its close proximity to the airport, which meant only a quick car drive to the venue after a long flight for all our overseas guests. WHAT SOLD YOU ON THE VENUE? After our first viewing of Zimbali, Tom and I just knew that this was the place we wanted for our special day. It embodies everything we wanted for our wedding, offering ocean views, gorgeous weather, five-star service and accommodation for all our guests and, most of all, an authentic South African experience.

DID YOU HAVE A SPECIFIC THEME? Two things were certain when we began planning — it would be in SA and it would be pink. Together we decided on a pale pink and grey colour scheme and were hoping to create a wedding that reflected us as a couple and had an African feel to inspire our overseas guests, many who were visiting SA for the first time. Tom created and handmade all our stationery (a very impressive groom, I agree!) and this, together with the local music, (Freshly Ground was a hit plus, of course, a sokkie or two) and local food, (mini bunny chows and the banana bread ice cream were my favourites) created just the dreamy day we were hoping for. DID EVERYTHING MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS AND WAS IT EVERYTHING THAT YOU HAD IMAGINED? We were so pleased with our venue

choice and this is largely due to Christo Van Wyk, the incredible coordinator at Zimbali. I cannot recommend or compliment Christo enough. He was fantastic, assisting us with organising our wedding from London and we could not have planned the day without him. By our wedding day, Christo felt like part of the family and I spent all wedding day enjoying and soaking up every moment knowing that Christo was in control, organising and co-ordinating everything just how we wanted it. We truly cannot thank him enough — what a star! WHAT WAS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR WEDDING? The emotions of the day. The tears began on the golf cart drive over to the lodge and then didn't stop. Mom, me, sissy, Tom.... even my big, tough stepdad, Sean, sobbing. Tom and I are both very close to our families and each holiday we have to make the difficult choice of which family we will be with, so it was such a very special and incredibly emotional day to have both our UK and SA families together in one country. I get teary just thinking about it (happy tears!). ARE YOUR PHOTOS A TRUE REFLECTION OF YOU AND YOUR HUBBY AND THE DAY YOU HAD? Absolutely! Jacki Bruniquel and Tash are an excellent team and captured some very intimate and natural shots of Tom and me that I think sum us up really well. The ceremony was very emotional and then by the reception we were “Gangham-styling” it away!

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Ballito ORD Y LET R R E DK 2012 Y AN UNE EZLE J W 0 : 3 E L G: O COUP DDIN ALLIT EL F WE LU, B O U QU E I Z I T DA EL RUN : HOT CKI B E A U J N : VE EDIT O CR PHOT

“Don’t know whyeId never consider e. them befor “ James Whitelaw

Wezley & Kerry

What sold you on the venue? We wanted a venue with a beautiful garden so that our reception could be outside, as we had planned a winter wedding in appreciation of our awesome Durban winters. I was looking for lots of green foliage and palm trees, of course! Did you have a specific theme? I started out planning a “shabby chic” wedding, but when I met with the amazing Penny from For The Table, we decided not to “theme” the wedding, but rather to look at the ideas I loved and work with those. I knew from the very beginning of the planning that I wanted to use the stunning

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King Protea. We started with these and everything came from that. Did everything meet your expectations and was it everything that you had imagined? It was absolutely perfect. I remember walking around after the speeches, chatting to guests and thinking “This is EXACTLY what I wanted!”. The gardens at Hotel Izulu were looking particularly beautiful, Penny and her team had done an amazing job with the decor and the staff at Hotel Izulu were great. Everything pulled together perfectly. What was the best thing about your wedding? We got married at 11:30, served a late lunch and expected most of the guests who weren’t staying over to start heading home in the early evening. The best part of the day was that the party went on into the night and we finally fell into bed at midnight!

Are your photos a true reflection of you and your hubby and the day you had? Our photos definitely reflect the love and fun shared at our wedding! Jacki and her assistant, Tash, did the most amazing job with our photos. Neither of us particularly enjoy being in front of the camera and the photos far surpassed our expectations. Thanks, guys! If someone had to ask what it was like as a wedding venue and why they should get married there, what would you say to them? The team at Hotel Izulu were organised and very helpful. They were able to guide us, thinking of every conceivable eventuality and working with what we were looking for and our budget. The venue — both the garden and the boma — are stunning for any occasion and the rooms that our guests stayed in were a real treat.

Our clients have a habit of saying good things about us. Which is not surprising. As South Africa’s only independent home loan provider, we’ve always made it our goal to ensure that we offer you the best of everything we have – whether it’s our competitive interest rates, compelling products, quick answers or best-in-industry service levels.

exPerience

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So if you’re thinking about applying for home finance – or looking to switch your bond – consider the home loan provider that understands what a home loan should really be about.

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What made you choose Ballito for your wedding? We were looking for a venue close enough to Durban North/Umhlanga (where many of our guests were travelling from) so that they didn’t need to stay over if they didn’t want to. We also wanted an outdoor option for our reception, weather permitting.

Their words, not ours

Terms and Conditions apply. Please refer to our website for further details. SA Home Loans is a Registered Credit Provider. Registration Number NCRCP1735.

Shop G6 | Ballito Junction 032 946 3504 hair.junction@live.co.za

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Ballito

Words Lisa Opperman

Ballito Inspiration

hat would happen if we approached Our assets and financial investments the way we approach our relationships? The truth is that many of us would be financially ruined or even bankrupt! We spend a tremendous amount of time in researching, understanding and planning our financial investments, meticulously looking at all the details. However, when it comes to investments of the heart, we blindly go through the motions, believing that “love” will be enough. Investing in love requires time, effort and full commitment. How do you invest in love? How do you ensure that your marriage will stand test of time? One of the biggest investments you can make is to stop trying to change your spouse. If you are looking for change, then start with yourself first. Change the way you react and respond to your spouse. A positive reaction and response will change the direction of the marriage and definitely influence your spouse to respond more favourably towards you. Love is understanding that we were created male and female, husband and wife — not wrong or right, just different. Celebrate the differences between male and female and understand that each spouse has a basic fundamental need. For a man, the primary need is to be respected and desired by his wife. For a wife, the primary need is to be loved and cherished by her husband. If couples really looked closely at the heart of any conflict situation they may be having, they will see that a husband will always react when he feels a need for respect and a wife will always react when she feels a need to be loved.

Make it a priority to understand your spouse’s love language. Each person has a unique way of showing and receiving love. Understanding what makes your spouse feel loved will certainly increase the share levels in any marriage. Dr Gary Chapman, in his number one best seller, The Five Love Languages, has identified that there are five ways in which we communicate love. Words of affirmation Acts of service Quality time Gifts Physical touch One of these love languages will be strongest for each individual in the way they receive and show love. Dr Chapman states that very seldom do husbands and wives share the same love language. One of the biggest breakthroughs I ever had in my marriage was when I understood that my husband’s love language is quality time and mine is affirmation. It allowed me to love him in a way which was meaningful to him and vice versa. It’s imperative that couples prioritise their marriages. Life is fast and furious and we can so easily place our children or careers ahead of the marriage. The best investment you can give your children is investing in your marriage. Take time out for date nights, walks, movies, long bubble baths or whatever takes your fancy. Couples need to understand that 18 years is a long time to wait for their children to grow up. Excuses keep couples complacent so, when all else fails, throw some Smarties on the grass and tell the kids to find them! This will certainly buy you both a bit of “what-a-lot-I-got” time. Attitude is the most vital component in any marriage. Your attitude will determine whether you have a great marriage or not. A good attitude says: “I understand that it’s not just ‘me’ but always ‘we’”. A healthy attitude understands it’s never a 50/50 split down the middle; it’s a full 100 percent commitment. A great attitude will always induce positive growth in the relationship. Great love “investment books” are – Love and Respect by Dr Emerson Eggerichs, The Five Love Languages by Dr Gary Chapman and Boundaries in Marriages by Dr H Cloud and Dr J Townsend.

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Well Appointed Dual Mandate

CHAKAS ROCK R 3 550 000 3 Bedroom home, open plan living areas, laundry and sundeck. Double garage

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Family Affair

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Picture Perfect

SALT ROCK R5 500 000 Secure and spacious 4 bedroom family home with quality finishes throughout. Established garden. Double garage. Expressions of Interest Fiona Crago: 082 551 2607 Robyn Jackson: 072 453 8267 Office: 032 946 1439 Fax: 086 607 8999 fiona@fionacrago.co.za www.fionacrago.co.za

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feature Ballito

Ballito feature 6: Take a walk on the promenade All too often we get home, turn on the TV and watch something less-than-interesting or play on our cell phones! Grab a bottle of wine and some strawberries and head down to the promenade at dusk for a romantic stroll. Find a secluded bench with a great view and let the romance flow.

9: A pretend blind date Meet your partner at a bar and try to pick each other up as if it’s the first time you’ve ever met. Re-invent yourself and get creative. If you can get past the hilariousness of it all, it can really add some zest to a relationship. Ballito has some great classy, intimate bars that offer the perfect setting for a pretend blind date! Simbithi Country Club, Karibu, Boathouse, Zimbali etc...

Words Storm Catterick

PUTTING THE “R” 1: Throw V-day out of the window

2: Write a poem or a letter

“cheaposity”.

The idea that we should be all “love and hearts” on only one day of the year is hogwash; it’s an escape route for lazy people who feel that they don’t have to show the same sort of spontaneity and romance on any other day. I’m not saying that you have to be on top-form every day, but at least once or twice a month a bit of sparkle and luuurve wouldn’t hurt.

Chocolates and sweets may be the commercialised “go to” ploy of the month but, hello, we’ve just come out of a season where we gorge ourselves into a stupor — we don’t need any more encouragement to grow a bum with its own postal code! A thoughtful letter that reveals your true feelings is something that will make the most discerning woman weak at the knees.

3: Prepare a romantic dinner

4: Rainy days!

There’s nothing like having a night off from cooking and life in general. Get a babysitter to watch the kids, deck the house with candles, flowers (preferably not strewn all over the house coz’ you know who’ll have to clean that up in the morning — and it’s not a magical fairy as many would seem to believe) and a wholesome home-cooked meal with added TLC!

So your plans for adding a bit romance have been ruined. Improvise! Rent an old black and white classic and snuggle up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate sprinkled with marshmallows and enjoy an intimate moment together. Grab a board game and get your giggle on as your companion tries to cheat his/ her way to success. Talk about life, each other and future plans. Communication is cheap, but it’s priceless!

5: Get your Fifty Shades on! (The PG part)

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7: A picnic on the beach

8: Don’t be a Half-job Harold

Pack a delectable but simple picnic basket (nothing’s worse than sand in food, so I would go for Tapas), head down to Willard’s or Salt Rock Beach and enjoy your surroundings in one of the most beautiful towns in KZN. A celebratory “ching” and a sip of bubbly just because you can, plus a loving smooch as the sun goes down, will leave your woman starry-eyed and irrevocably in love!

One of the most annoying things in the world is having something half done. Yes, we know it adds to your insane obsession with making us see you as more of a “man”, but, newsflash, when you don’t finish a job, it makes you look like a tightarse! Get down to the hardware store and finally fix or finish the DIY job you’ve been procrastinating about for the last two years!

10: Full body massage Treat your partner to a full body massage. Use sensual fragranced oils, light scented candles (but don’t pull a You, Me and Dupree and burn down your house!) and create a mood of relaxation and intimacy. Afterwards lead your partner to a hot bubblebath with two glasses of wine next to it. ROMANTIC! If you feel like being pampered, too, call Organic Mobile Spa and enjoy a relaxing couple’s massage done by professionals in the comfort of your own home!

INTO ROMANTIC!!!

I’m not talking about “that” 80 percent of the book — I’m talking about the other 20 percent. E-mail your other half a sweet, sexy, suggestive, surreptitious message that’ll make coming home exciting and something to look forward to. It’s amazing what power the word has on one’s imagination!

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Ballito

for interest sakes Ballito

New and reconditioned 2-6 seater carts available as well as a back up service for maintenance and repairs. Contact our Branch Manager: Ursula Isaacson Tel: 031 705 3390/1 | Cell: 083 549 5690 Email: ursula@cse.co.za

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WORDS Pippa Rowney

Handsome styling. Plenty of power. A smooth gentle ride. And all the custom options you could ask for. Perfect for recreation, transportation, or just plain fun. Keep your social life on the right course. Ask for a test drive today.

t’s the season of love and during this time we often seem to start noticing more couples around. As Valentine’s Day cards, red roses and cute teddy

bears festoon shop windows let us, rather than fall into a manic romancehater rage, take a moment to look at the funny side of couples. Couples are great! No two are the same and that is cool. There is always something to have a good laugh about when you link two unique individuals together… differences are bound to become apparent. I have had great enjoyment in looking at the funny side of couples and have unknowingly found myself categorising couples into specific groups — the “Touchy Feelies”, the “Perfect Match” and the “Mismatched”. So, without further ado, let’s look into each of these three categories and especially the funny side of couples. Maybe you’ll even find yourself fitting in to one of them.

This can be a bit of a touchy subject, excuse the pun. But, seriously, some people are infuriated by the Touchy Feelies that kiss in the movies, never stop touching each other, hold hands while eating (who can do that) or — my personal favourite — walk around with their hands an inappropriate depth into each other’s pants. What are your thoughts about this group of couples? Have you ever had a bad experience, such as being trapped in the window seat while young lovers spend the entire two-hour flight from Durban to Cape Town lip-locked? But it gets better! There is most certainly a funny side to couples who are Mismatched. Ever had an awkward moment standing in a queue with a couple fighting behind you? It’s in situations like these that you know you shouldn’t laugh, but you really want to. Mismatched couples amuse me daily, especially when the signs are visible. Uber-jock meets nerdy girl, really tall guy meets petite girl and, of course, surfer

girl meets accountant — the most unlikely matches, yet they make it work, bless them! Some people love them and many people love to hate them — those couples that are just the Perfect Match. They finish each other’s sentences and they know what they mean without having to speak. Come on now! But we see them everywhere — up at 5 a.m. running on the promenade together, or hiking through the Drakensberg wearing only the best hiking brands and what about those couples who you might even mistake for brother and sister! Uh-oh! Awkward! These are just a few of my observations on the funny side of couples. I am sure you probably have your own categories to fit couples into and these, I am sure, afford you a great deal of amusement too.

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health review Ballito

Ballito hair review

HeadHunters Transfo rmation

I recently had the privilege of a pampering hair make-over at Headhunters at the Ballito Junction Centre. Despite the salon being very busy, with every stylist doing what they are passionate about – creating and providing the perfect style and service – I received a warm and friendly welcome when I arrived. Headhunters Hair @ Junction as it is now known was originally established in Ballito over 15 years ago. In May 2012 Headhunters welcomed not only new owners but a completely new fresh look, which is quite beautiful, with dark wood trimmings, state of the art equipment and soft ambient lighting. The salon reminds me of a trendy high end salon in London. There are four Master Stylists (each with 30 plus years’ experience) and three Head Stylists (each with 10 plus years’ experience), in total they have just a few years shy of two centuries experience among them. All the hair stylists had had enough of the hustle and bustle in Johannesburg and decided to escape to our beautiful town to live a quality life “by die see”. My transformation was to be at the hands of Jaime, one of the Head Stylists. Consultation is the most important part of any service or makeover as the stylists need to understand your likes and dislikes and what you as the client expect as a final result and look. We decided to bring back some darker tones along with the ash-blonde pieces, so full head foils it was. She made an effortless task of the foils and before I knew it she was done but not before enjoying a couple of delicious cappuccino’s. A few minutes later it was over to the back wash basin’s – the cherry on the top for me - as I was treated to an amazing head massage of which I almost dozed off from. Jaime and I decided to funk it up a little by the addition of 2 purple strands in my hair. It was a very nice touch and as it is a temporary colour, it allows for the option of changing the shade to add a little “quirk” to your look. Headhunters Hair @ Junction is a truly vibrant salon with a warm ambience, friendly staff and amazing results. If you are looking for a transformation a visit to Headhunters should be on your first port of call.

Shop G6 / Ballito Junction Tel: 032 946 3504 www.hair.junction@live.co.za 44 |

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A complete body relaxation experience

Words Storm Catterick

WORDS Lucille nagel

A Trendy

Canelands Spa

hen a long getaway just isn’t possible, a treatment at a day spa retreat can still provide much-needed rest and relaxation. The Canelands Beach Club and Spa in Salt Rock offers this and more! Nestled on a quiet beach, away from the craziness that often complicates life, it is the perfect day spa for anyone looking for a nearby but unique retreat. I recently got to experience a couple of blissful hours at Canelands Spa and what an experience it was! The setting is fantastic, very intimate and personal with four treatment rooms and three therapists. The spa resonates calm and relaxation from the moment you enter it and the welcoming smiles from the therapists make you feel immediately at ease. The décor and ambiance reflect the beach setting — this was the first time I’ve been to a spa where the sounds of the rolling waves were absolutely natural and not emanating from a “spa soundtrack”! My therapist for the day, Mari-Loize Du Toit — who is also the spa manager — was wonderful. She was very enthusiastic and full of passion for the spa and what she does. She told me all about the treatments offered, including their health benefits, which made me realize how important a

bit of pampering can be for your health. “I want people to come here, experience something unique— and then spread the message that it’s good to have treatments and pamper yourself, not for just stress relief but for health,” says Mari-Loize. The spa stocks many excellent products, including Dermalogica products for everyone from teens to more mature clients, the ESSE facial treatment range, Exotic African oils which are used to slim, tone and detox and the SpaLicious manicure and pedicure range. There are a wide variety of treatments available, but the one thing that stood out for me was how accommodating this spa is. They realise that not everyone has hours to spend getting pampered and, with this in mind, they have included pamper sessions for those that are in desperate need of a massage or facial but don’t have much time available. I believe that this is extremely important in this day and age, although not many salons seem to take this into consideration. My treatments for the day started with a full-body Swedish massage with Dermalogica stress relief aromatherapy oils. This is a great massage that focuses on specific areas with muscle tension and knots. The massage also has health

benefits, such as increasing blood circulation, aiding in detox and helping your respiratory system. The massage was incredible and didn’t feel rushed; Mari-Loize took her time and tackled each and every knot, releasing me from all the tension in my upper body. Next was my ESSE Gentle and Hydrating facial for dry and sensitive skin. ESSE is a great organic product that is specifically made to help rejuvenate skin in S.A’s harsh climate. An added bonus is that you get a scalp, hand and arm massage whilst your mask sets. The facial involves a 16-step process which relaxes you so much that you tend to drift off from time to time. What I really liked is that each product had a different natural fragrance which makes your mind wander to a tropical paradise. There is so much to say about Canelands Beach Club and Spa; the two complement each other and offer something that is like nothing I have ever experienced before. I can highly recommend this to anyone looking for an amazing day out! Visit their website and see their exceptional packages. Tel: 032 525 4835 www.canelandssaltrock.co.za

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Ballito photographer profile

Photographer profile Ballito

local chris & emily allan Words Storm Catterick

photographers to look out for

In the third instalment of Photographers to look out for, in which we profile the best of Ballito’s photographers — professionals who we think you could make use of when you want to capture a special moment — we are featuring Chris and Emily Allan, a husband-and-wife creative team who are known for their professionalism and unquestionable skill when it comes to creating magical, everlasting memories. This combination of two creative minds has put them into a league of their own, cementing a name for themselves as Ballito’s photography power couple. They have a passion for each other and for taking beautiful photographs. Specialising in maternal, new-born, child and family photography, they also focus on weddings, travel and corporate photography. Chris and Emily are this month’s local photographers to look out for!

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photographer profile Ballito

Ballito

Tell us a little bit about yourselves? Emily and I run our business as a photographer, director/producer team. We have lived in Ballito for two-and-a half years now after having worked in Johannesburg and abroad. Since arriving on the North Coast, we have yet to touch a surfboard, but on Ballito’s hottest days we have been known to wear flip-flops to the studio so, although we often deal with corporates and work with tough deadlines, we try and keep it as relaxed at the “office” as we can. So far the decision to team-up has been one of the best we have ever made! How long have you been a photographer? Thirteen years. Emily has been shooting for 5 years and the images she captures on location when she is not directing often put me to shame.

What or who got you started in photography and did you study? I studied Photojournalism at Rhodes University under an eccentric lecturer called Monty Cooper, who I often think of when faced with the more quirky or weird assignments when, I know, he would have been itching to pull out his old-school Nikon camera loaded with black and white film. Emily started out as a TV director on some of South Africa’s popular reality shows. What gives you ideas or inspires you to create such amazing imagery? Most situations, subjects and locations have a beautiful or at least aesthetically interesting side to them. The trick is to discover that angle, moment, expression, etc and I love the experience of “hunting” for that photo. It is one of the reasons we shoot such a wide variety of subjects.

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Bright, clear messages with a leaning towards less “arty”/esoteric imagery. What type of cameras do you shoot with? Nikon D4, D700 and D300s. And, on occasion, the Iphone.. What is your favourite photography accessory? My Manfrotto tripod. How important is Photoshop in your final images? Very important. I often shoot with the knowledge of how Photoshop or whatever editing software I will use can enhance the final product. Obviously, if the job is more photojournalistic in nature, the retouching will be limited to small adjustments in exposure. What is the best/favourite photo you’ve taken? I have lots of favourites and they change from week to week. At the moment I love the image of the front-end loader. It was taken in Equatorial Guinea and the lighting, dust and small flash on the driver were all part of the plan, so when it turned out well on the screen on the back of my camera, I danced around high-fiving myself for a few minutes! Describe the ideal conditions that help to get a great photo (natural light, mornings vs afternoons, times of year or anything like that)? I love shooting in the late afternoon and early evening. On the North Coast the sun can be super-powerful first thing in the morning whereas, generally speaking, the afternoon light is gentler. www.chrisallan.co.za and www.peppermintpix.co.za

How would you describe your style? w w w. fa b m a g s . c o . z a

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Ballito car review

Words Richard Webb

Cruzing nowhere slowly

ruzing nowhere, frugally There are no substitutes for the big-engined Chevy to cruise the open road in search of adventure, right? Richard Webb ponders road tripping in a mid-sized Chevrolet Remember when Chevrolet marketed its’ V8 5-litre Constantia with the “Braai-vleis, rugby, sunny skies and Chevrolet” jingle on the radio? It supported the widely held view that highly tuned; smaller capacity engines simply couldn’t hold a candle against the beefy automotive muscle offered by large engines from Fords, Chevrolets and Chryslers of the day. In a world where petrol used to cost 8 cents a litre, I used to lap it up, even though I was not old enough to drive back then. Not legally, anyway. So, what car did David More’s travel series, Going Nowhere Slowly, choose to amble around the country in? A VW Beetle? A Chrysler Valiant Regal, perhaps? Nope. Nothing but the 6.5-litre Chevrolet Impala and it was certainly muscle enough for a real road trip.

Now that petrol costs more than beer, road trips need a shift to new car-paradigm. Economy and coolness. As I planned my Christmas road trip last year, I poured over the options before me. Walking was out and the MyCiTy Bus didn’t go where I wanted to go. No, it just had to be a Chevrolet, but one that did better mileage than the Constantia’s 24I/100km. The aptly named Cruze seemed worth a look. Okay, it’s engine is a whopping 68% smaller than its grandly named grandfather, the Constantia, but it sips just 7I/100km. So I opted for the Cruze 1.6LS sedan as my summer road trip car of choice.

Sweeping through the Thomas Bain engineered passes gave us an opportunity to test the handling. We did slow down to take in the sparkling rivers and towns of Calitzdorp, Barrydale, Ashton, Worcester, Robertson, McGregor, Ceres, Tulbagh and Wellington. They are serotonin for the soul. It seems that smaller cubic capacity engines are here to stay, offering cleaner, relatively powerful and decent economy with enough torque. The Cruze may not have that marvelous rumble of the V8 to announce my arrival, but it did manage itself well on our South African road trip steeped in history.

I pointed the Chevrolet’s ‘bow-tie’ logo along out of Cape Town towards Cape Route 62, through the dotted Breede River Valley towns. Wine is one of their best-kept secrets with more than 45 cellars offering unpretentious, world-class wines. Spittoons remained bone dry as we enjoyed the fruits of vintners’ efforts along Route 62, requiring that the dedicated (short-straw) driver to look on grumpily.

The Chevrolet Cruze LS It comes with a decent amount of equipment compared to its competition, including ABS, stability control, remote keyless entry, A/C, and power windows and locks, which compares well with its competitors on paper. Perhaps oddly, it comes without cruise control. Quality soft touch plastics, padded vinyl and a well built interior help a lot though. The seats manually adjust for front and rear height. Although for the sheer joy of driving, it will not get your passengers fighting for the keys. It seems to not be big on driver engagement. But for the average commuter, the Cruze does what it’s meant to do. I managed just over 7l/100km for my 700km trip, which was about three times better than any Chevrolet Constantia would have given me. The truth is though, that the Cruze is already five years old, having arrived elsewhere in 2008. All things considered it’s a fairly affordable car and buyers in this segment should value that above other virtues.

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Ballito kids feature

kids feature Ballito

Local Kids Take Gold, Silver & Bronze Age: 16 Sport: Singing, Piano and Guitar Achievements: Making the KZN Youth Choir Age: 12 Sport: Surfing Achievements: SA champ u 13 girls 2012 First in SA! KZN champ u 13 girls 2012 KZN girl surfer of the year 2012

How long have you been doing your sport professionally? I have been surfing in competitions for 2 years but in 2012 I started taking it seriously. Tell us about your achievements so far? Well 2012 was for sure my best year I won South African U13 girls champs in Jeffries Bay. I also won KZN champs and I was named KZN girl surfer for 2012, I do other comps throughout the year which I have done well in but nothing beats my SA champs win! Why the sport you have chosen? I have chosen surfing because it’s so fun and different to other sports. I surf because the ocean is my playground.

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How long have you been doing your singing “professionally”? Well to be honest I never really had the courage to sing in front of large groups of people until a good friend of mine (Kate Perkins) ‘sorta’ forced me to sing with her at an Eisteddfod in grade 8 and then my music teacher asked me to join the choir and I guess everything ‘sorta’ started from there.

What do you love about it? I love that every wave is different and that it’s so fun and I have met really awesome people doing it! When did you know you were good enough to win GOLD? Well in 2011 I made the semi finals of SA champs, so last year it was my goal to make finals and after winning my semi final I kind of realised I was good enough.

surfing, win SA champs again and to have fun doing it. Any sponsors involved? I am very lucky to have the most awesome sponsors Roxy and Farking. How often do you practice? I go to coaching twice a week and try surf as often as possible especially on the weekends.

Tell us about your achievements so far? I play piano, bass guitar, drums and sing. I was honoured to be in the Ashton 2012 concert, it was so much fun just to be with my friends and dance and sing and it took a lot of time and plenty, plenty rehearsals, but it was totally worth it! I am extremely blessed to be a part of the KZN Youth Choir this year, I really didn’t think I was going to make it but I prayed really hard and gave it my best, and now I am part of something more amazing then I ever imagined! I am proud to be part of my schools choir and band.

Why have you chosen to excel in music as a whole? Music is a passion I have; I guess I’ve just grown up with it. I remember when I was small and my mom and grampa used to sit me down at the piano and I had to practice my piece 50 times, at that time it was torture but it’s all worth it and so rewarding in the end! When did you know you were good enough to achieve something more? No person thinks that they’re good enough, it’s the people around you that push you along I guess. It’s super scary standing waiting for an audition and hearing people singing all around you that are so amazing, it does make you feel that you’re not as good as them. You have to go through that to realise what you can do, and if you don’t make it, don’t stress just work hard and there’s always next time! Goals for the future? Of course! Who doesn’t? Well first of all I want to pass Matric music with an A and

I really want to join the school Marimba Band and maybe accompany the String Ensemble. I’m also really hoping to travel to Italy with the KZN Youth Choir, and take part in a competition there! I would love to perform in theatre one day, but I’ll have to wait and see. Any sponsors involved? No, only my loving parents who give up a lot for me. (Brownie points?) But seriously, Love you guys! How often do you practice? Choir rehearsals are a couple of hours every Friday night, and when we rehearse for plays and concerts, it’s round about 7 hours a week which isn’t bad at all! Additionally I have to practice my guitar and piano every day.

Goals for the future? My goals for the future are to improve my

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Ballito kids feature

Age: 12 Sport: Horse riding Achievements: School Provincial colours for Natal in 3 different disciplines

Age: 7 academic: SEMAS Achievements: KZN - Champions Trophee – age 6 SA’s – Gold – age 6 KZN – Gold - age 7 SA’s – Gold – age 7 SEMAS SA team to participate at Internationals in Hong Kong, December 2013

How long have you been doing your field “professionally”? I started in Grade 00, just before I turned 5. We started very slow and basic. Your achievements.... natural talent or because you put in the time to achieve your goals? It is like learning to drive a truck... the earlier you start the better. By the age of 8, the paths in your brain are already engraved as to how you respond to math. Because I started so early, I only know one way of doing sums; and that is with imagining I can see the abacus in my head. The Japanese have been doing math on an abacus for 1000’s of years before Jesus was born! How cool is that!? It takes very little talent. It is mostly hard work, but with enough hard work, it ends up becoming second nature. I never learned to count on my fingers.

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Tell us about your achievements so far? I received the champion’s trophy at the KZN Competition when I was 6 and in Grade R. After that, Gold at the Nationals. Last year when I was in Grade 1, I received gold at the KZN Competition and again at Nationals. My Mom told me not to expect too much, but I told her that whatever I say over my life, will be true. I told her that I can do all things through Christ who lives in me and I was right! I even missed the Champion’s Trophy with only 1%. The competition is really tough! The best compliment was to be chosen as part of the South African team (SEMAS Springbokkies), to go to the Internationals in Hong Kong, December this year. It came as a complete surprise! The toughest bit will be to try and convince my parents to let me go……..!

What do you love about it? It is all about accuracy and speed, so we always have a race and as a boy, I LOVE a good race. It is nice to be able to challenge older children as well. Goals for the future? More gold! And an A+ in Matric! Any sponsors involved? Mum’s time, as she home schools me on SEMAS and Dad’s money as I get a fun Jo’burg trip for the National every year, but he said Hong Kong will not happen without a sponsor. How often do you practice? It is very important to me to still play soccer, guitar, judo, swim, ride my bike and just have play time, so we only do 20 minutes, 5 days a week.

How long have you been doing your sport professionally? I have been properly competing for just over a year now, from 2012. Your achievements.... natural talent or because you put in the time to achieve your goals? I have always had a passion for animals big or small, and begged my parents to let me ride forever, eventually in about 2010 sometime they let me start riding at Sugar Hill riding school. I have got to where I am through hard work and lots of time spent at the stables. I ride 5 or 6 times a week, straight from school and most times get home after 17:00 and still do homework (Yuk), and of course my coach is brilliant Jodi Peters. Tell us about your achievements so far? I competed in 4 SANESA shows at different places throughout Natal and placed in the top 4 for all my disciplines, which are Dressage, Show Jumping and Performance Riding which is like Showing(beauty contest). I then qualified to make the Natal team and got my school Natal colours, I

then went on to compete in Kyalami Jhb in September 2012. What do you love about it? What I love about the sport is it keeps me out doors where I love to be, and close to nature. We also do out-rides in the sugar cane and that is always a highlight for me and Monty, but they often stop to have a nibble of the cane, it’s a real treat for them. To achieve gold is always a real proud moment for horse and owner cause when you dealing with an animal it’s not always how you planned it out in your head. I have had many a fall in getting to achieve my goals. Goals for the future? Just to keep enjoying what I do and keep the passion alive. It can be difficult when you juggling school work and riding. To keep competing in the SANESA shows and one day get my S.A. colours in affiliated shows. Of course the Olympics sound great but you need a gazillion dollars to get there.

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Ballito

kids corner Ballito

Ingredients • 2 cups plain flour, gluten-free if necessary • 3 teaspoons baking powder • 2 tablespoons caster sugar • 2 eggs, lightly beaten • 750mL buttermilk • 75g unsalted butter, melted • ¾ cup choc chips • Extra unsalted butter for greasing pan

Q: Why did the Tigger look in the toilet? A: He was looking for Pooh!

Method Stir the flour, baking powder and sugar together in a bowl. Add the eggs, buttermilk and melted butter, whisk to combine. Stir in choc chips. Heat a large non-stick frypan over medium heat and melt ¼ teaspoon of the extra butter. Pour 1/3 cup (I use my measuring cup) of pancake batter into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface. Turn the pancake over gently and cook for another minute. Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and keep warm (oven at 120°C) while cooking the rest of the pancakes. Stir the mixture between pancakes so all the choc chips are not left on the bottom of the bowl. Serve with your choice of toppings my personal fav is a simple golden syrup!

Q: What do you call a travelling flea? A: An itch- hiker! Q: Why was it so hot after a rugby game? A: Because all the fans left!

Make an Egg Float in Salt Water An egg sinks to the bottom if you drop it into a glass of ordinary drinking water but what happens if you add salt? What you’ll need One egg Water Salt A tall drinking glass

Instructions 1. Pour water into the glass until it is about half full. 2. Stir in lots of salt (about 6 tablespoons). 3. Carefully pour in plain water until the glass is nearly full (be careful to not disturb or mix the salty water with the plain water). 4. Gently lower the egg into the water and watch what happens.

What’s happening? Salt water is denser than ordinary tap water, the denser the liquid the easier it is for an object to float in it. When you lower the egg into the liquid it drops through the normal tap water until it reaches the salty water, at this point the water is dense enough for the egg to float. If you were careful when you added the tap water to the salt water, they will not have mixed, enabling the egg to amazingly float in the middle of the glass.

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Words Lil Bianchi

the prowler never lies

hether you’re an athlete, housewife, mother/father or built like a Greek brick house, there are some things that you can’t go without. Conditioning (Cardio). It’s these things that will build the weak, build the professional sportsman and build a model physique.

conditioning. If you want to be faster, stronger, more efficient and look hot in spandex, for ultimate conditioning you want to push prowlers, pull sleds, battle ropes, smash the skipping rope, tackle those hill sprints and fight the building stairs. Why? Because these are the shores upon which the weak are made stronger.

Strength to conditioning is like orgasms to sex. You can’t have one without the other, or you can, but the results are never good. I love this side of training as much as a seven year old loves spinach. However at the same time it’s that physical stimulation of pushing yourself beyond your last session that people like me thrive on. Now when we talk building lung capacity, building endurance, putting the body under stress, increasing your speed and cardiovascular fitness, we talk conditioning.

The prowler is probably thee most effective training tool, I am no expert but I have spent the last 18 months on the prowl. I have learnt that this simple piece of equipment builds your lungs, your hips and your legs and leaves you wanting to throw up a body part. There is little room for wear and tear on the knees, shins and ankles and the gains I have experienced surrounding my level of conditioning are irremovable, whether you are a beginner, an athlete or a world class sportsman the prowler should fall in as part of your workout.

Your strength is useless if you run out of gas. If you are training you must be

Walk into any garage style facility and you are going to find some powerhouse out of

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breath, red in the face and grunting like a troll. It’s not about looking fabulous it’s about getting results. Battling ropes build muscular endurance, increase lung capacity, works your grip and is an invaluable tool for speed and endurance. When does your body start adapting to the stress? Never ever. Hill sprints and stair sprints are probably the most lethal in my books, making your strong, fast and lean while building your mental strength. Another great exercise that only requires the outdoors, that target your legs and your lungs while attacking your mind. As South Africans we have no excuse to be indoors staring into the screen on the treadmill, adjusting to an incline while your personal trainer barks “pick up the pace” from the side lines, this gets you results like a fast food salad gets you nutrition. These tools and this knowledge are not going to just make you hard, but make you hard to beat. You have to make time for conditioning or make time for failing.

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