Thirtieth Edition // March 2014
Featuring Aleit Wedding Coordination Aleit Events Stir Food Shake and Serve Skin Renewal Wine Library
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THE OPENING
THIRTIETH EDITION – MARCH 2014
13
WEDDINGS & EVENTS MADUSHI & STEFAN OMSFIN CONFERENCE
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A TEAM OF THE MONTH FILM DEPARTMENT OF A MEDIA
AFRICA FORUM CLIENT COCKTAIL
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FEATURES STIR FOOD Chef Gustaaf’s Eggy Tips
SHAKE AND SERVE
Bourbon Crusta
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IN CLOSING
TO END IT OFF
WINE LIBRARY Introduction by Linda-Louise Roosenschoon
SKIN RENEWAL Balanced Hormones Equals Harmonious Aging INDEX // 3
OPENING //
One thing that the Aleit Group and all its members have definitely embraced is quite a free flowing wine culture. This means that all internal meetings are without fail accompanied by a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Being based on the picturesque Lourensford Wine Estate further ensures this quite social culture’s evolvement. On the note of not so healthy habits… I have a confession to make. At the ripe young age of 19 I lit my very first Marlboro in front of the 7/11. The vilest taste I had ever experienced. Smoking was however considered to be very fashionable at the time so I absolutely forced myself to like it. As a result I purposely developed this horrible habit - without a doubt the worst decision I have ever made. At the young young age of 39… 22 days ago to be exact, I finally kicked this nasty habit for good. I’ve always had this uncomfortable feeling that something was chasing me, turns out it was that little white monster. Having given up smoking for good I can safely say that it has brought a noticeable, dramatic change to my life. Running the risk of sounding cheesy, the glasses of Sauvignon Blanc consumed is becoming less and less, the leisure time at hand is so much more. Stir’s sumptuous food can be better tasted and savoured. The absolute highlight…time with my precious daughter is so much more enjoyable. I am altogether healthier, happier… and my hands stay cleaner for longer! Photographer : Ebert Steyn
THE OPENING
THIRTIETH EDITION
MARCH 2014
OPENING // 5
OPENING //
Photographer : Ebert Steyn
ALEIT SWANEPOEL
the cigarette, I drew in the crisp air. Looking out my window I suddenly realised, the wall has to go. My home, which I love so dearly and which dates back to the early 1890s will finally be
FOUNDER & CEO
Waking up one morning, instead of taking that first drag of
restored to its former splendour, with true Cape Dutch windows and stunning French doors leading out to the wraparound veranda. The new colours will also reflect the true Cape Dutch character, I just obtained the dark charcoal and crisp white paint, it is going to create beautiful accents. It always starts with just one wall… oh dear, could this be my replacement just disappear before your eyes!
THE ALEIT GROUP
addiction?? Venues… beware, with me on site your walls might
OPENING // 7
FERDINAND
EBERT
A TEAM OF THE MONTH |FILM DEPARTMENT OF A MEDIA
Leon I was brought up with a keen interest and love of nature because both my parents are ecologists. It then comes as no surprise that I enjoy being out and about, filming. Why I love LEON
film… film is a unique way to make someone feel something by telling a beautiful story. When I feel I’m at the point where my work is at a level of quality that others can’t reach, my day truly is complete.
Ferdinand I was born and raised in the historic town of Worcester and spent my teen years working at the local independent cinema – The Stargazer. This is where my deep love for cinema thrived. My choice to tread the risky waters of cinema came from my life’s philosophy – you have to love what you do for a living. Cinema/ film captures our imagination; it is literally the business of creating and producing dreams. Waking up every day with the knowledge that I am actually being paid for that which defines the very essence of my being is an indescribably incredible feeling. A TEAM OF THE MONTH // 9
LEON
FERDINAND
EBERT
A TEAM OF THE MONTH |FILM DEPARTMENT OF A MEDIA
Ebert I was born and raised in Pretoria and have always had an absolute passion for stories and film. Both my parents are in the arts so I guess it is in my blood to look at life through a lens with eyes that dream. Being a true creative soul I am at my happiest when I am working on an exciting new concept, be it shooting, editing or formulating a new story. Waking up is the most difficult part of the day, however as soon as my body adjusts to the new day I get excited‌ and then the fun starts all over again!
FOR MORE ON THESE DASHING GENTLEMEN follow this link https://vimeo.com/89000378
A TEAM OF THE MONTH // 11
WEDDINGS |MADUSHI & STEFAN
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TRADITIONAL BUDDHIST CEREMONY |MADUSHI & STEFAN
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TRADITIONAL BUDDHIST CEREMONY |MADUSHI & STEFAN
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A beautiful, peaceful ceremony held on the beach in front of the Lagoon Beach Hotel. Madushi and Stefan were united in Buddhism through many sacred rituals performed by their officiator, Ava, with the backdrop of the sea and the majestic Table Mountain.
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The ceremony seating of mats with large cushions and the vintage stools created a relaxed atmosphere and fitted perfectly with the beach feel. The simple bamboo gazebo had a colourful South African look, using bright oranges and pinks with touches of green aloe.
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Madushi’s beautiful mother, stylishly elegant, assisting her blue eyed girl with the final touches, before the magical walk down the aisle.
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WEDDINGS |MADUSHI & STEFAN
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This was Madushi and Stefan’s big day! A full Ceremony, Pre-Dinner and a luxurious Reception held at Laurent on Lourensford Estate. All the stops were pulled out for this one!
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An intimate setting was created for the Ceremony on the lawn in front of the venue, with the gazebo in the middle and the chairs laid out surrounding it. DÊcor here was kept to whites and blush pink with extravagant mass floral arrangements at the ends of the aisles. To add a touch of drama, individual draping structures were set out down the steps creating a walkway towards the ceremony.
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For Reception, we were inspired to create an old school hotel lobby. We draped the entire venue in soft cream chiffon which was pulled back into thick curtains. Lounge pockets were placed in-between the tables. Gold tiffany chairs were brought in to match the classic and pastel floral details with tall gold candelabras and muted purple candles with cut crystal glassware and crisp white napkins.
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TIGGER 2 YACHT
EVENTS |OMSFIN CONFERENCE
What started out as a simple breakfast conference soon  transformed into an exciting day of entertainment. Delegates arrived at the V&A Hotel for their short morning breakfast conference, but upon completion of the formalities the fun truly started. A luxury yacht, the Tigger 2, awaited guests in its scenic mooring space at the V&A Waterfront. Guests were welcomed on board with
OMSFIN
CONFERENCE
a glass of refreshing MCC by the friendly crew.
EVENTS // 55
EVENTS |OMSFIN CONFERENCE
Once out at sea, canapÊ service commenced, with a mouth watering menu including lamb and mint kofta, pepper seared ostrich fillet, Springbok carpaccio, camembert coated in black sesame seeds to name but a few. During the cruise there were spottings of dolphins, penguins and seals, although the spectacular views were definitely the main attraction. Dinner followed at one of our favourite venues, Shimmy Beach Club. By the time guests left, they were treated to the full Cape Town experience – definitely not your run of the mill conference.
EVENTS // 57
EVENTS |AFRICA FORUM CLIENT COCKTAIL
The annual Barclays event was held at the stunning Hyatt Regency in Rosebank in February. This session focused on how to do business in Africa, and the theme “Africa is Happening” was carried through from the initial presentation followed by a cocktail event. Vibrant colours of plum, cyan and hues of luscious greens were incorporated in the décor and we combined it with different surface characteristics of coarse, raw wood, luxurious velvet and a variety of shaggy material. Shweshwe and mirror boxes added additional height to flower arrangements on various coffee tables and plinths placed around the venue. For the floral arrangements we used an array of indigenous plants and flowers, these included succulents, proteas and various shrub and seed branches in clear vases. Organic Lounge, a trendy electro-lounge outfit, combining Café del Mar style DJ with a live Jazz musician set the tone for the evening while guests networked and indulged in circulating canapés. Scrumptious canapés included seared tuna loin with salsa, pâté de foie gras on crispy brioche with cranberry compote and pepper seared beef fillet with garlic aioli.Guests were further spoiled with a lamb roast and sushi station, and to end the evening a decadent array of sweet desserts were served.
EVENTS // 59
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FEATURES | STIR FOOD //
We all know fried, scrambled, poached and boiled. But what about cage FREE-RANGE
fed, grain fed, free-range and organic? As part of our every day diet it’s important to know the difference between these terms when it comes to that delicious staple of most delicious breakfasts, eggs. We love nothing more than a perfectly poached egg oozing over some blanched asparagus (in season now!) with crispy pancetta or streaky bacon for that bit of added naughtiness. The only way to achieve a perfectly poached egg is to use a fresh egg, simple as that. Where do you get the very best freshly laid eggs? Usana, a family run farm on the outskirts of Stellenbosch where you can pop by to pick up your huevos. Visit
EGGY TIPS
www.usanawines.co.za. Here’s the difference between free range and grain fed, read it carefully so you’re not left with egg on your face. Free-Range Eggs Free-range eggs are laid from hens that have the opportunity to go outside. Smaller farms may keep birds outside under a canopy area. They may travel in and out of a barn at free will or spend some portion of their day roaming outdoors. Read - happier chickens :) Grain Fed These eggs are not free range and are generally kept in confined cages. The important fact is that they do not eat commercial feeds which include fish and chicken meal but are rather given a healthier diet of grain. Despite
GRAIN FED
being better than commercial feeds, they still lack healthy omega oils so are not the best option.
CHEF GUSTAAF’S EGGY TIPS The pan must never be too hot, slow and low is the way to go (we simply couldn’t resist a bit of rhyming). Butter beats oil. Always gently fold with a spatula. No aggressive beating with metal utensils. Non stick works best. Add your seasoning only after your eggs are cooked. Poached eggs Only works with very fresh eggs. Pre broken in cups is easy to manage. One tablespoon
Photographer : Leon van Rooyen
Scrambled eggs
of vinegar per 1L of water. Use good quality white wine vinegar. Be sure to give the water a gentle stir before dropping the egg. FEATURES // 63
A DELECTABLE COCKTAIL BY SHAKE AND SERVE
FEATURES | SHAKE AND SERVE //
bourbon crusta
2 oz Bourbon Whiskey 1/2 oz Triple Sec 1/2 oz Maraschino Liqueur 1/2 oz Lemon Juice 2 dash(es) Orange Bitters Shake with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange peel.
FEATURES // 65
FEATURES | THE WINE LIBRARY //
“ I only drink Champagne when I am happy and when I am sad. Sometimes I drink it when I am alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I am not in a hurry and drink it when I am, otherwise I never touch thestuff unless I am thirsty.” - Madame Lily Bollinger
Wine Estates in my Portfolio are Cederberg Private Cellar: Owner; Niewoudt Family; Cellarmaster; David Niewoudt; Springfield Estate in Robbertson: Owner Bruwer family; Cellarmaster; Abrie Bruwer Le Riche Wines: The Aleit Group is incredibly proud to be associated
Stellenbosch;
Owner
Le
Riche
Family; Cellarmaster Ettiene le Riche and
with the innovative Wine Library. Herewith a short introduction by Founder and CEO Linda- Louise Roosenschoon.
Christo, his son; Delaire Graff Estate: Stellenbosch; Owner Sir Laurence Graff; Cellarmaster; Morne Very
“The Wine Library concept entails the positioning and placement of exclusive wine brands within the high profile corporate industry of South Africa. I am a lover of wine and all things beautiful, but at the same time I have access to a niche market that no normal marketing drive can reach effectively. My service is only available to a limited number of wine estates in order to ensure exclusivity and effectiveness. Wines receive exposure and placement within the exclusive market of ultra high, net-worthy corporate clients. Sourcing of special packaging or exclusive new products to showcase into this niche market by ways of gifts is also part of my portfolio.Wine products are showcased by means of private dinners in the form of 10 CEO’s around a table, exclusive Cocktail events, private cellar consultations, year-end events, wine-blending events, food and wine pairing events. Wine is such an incredible part of our Cape Town culture, and I am privileged to be working alongside the very best.
FEATURES // 67
Photographer : Leon van Rooyen
SKIN RENEWAL
FEATURES | SKIN RENEWAL // From about the age of 40 onwards, hormone
So what to do if you are 45 plus? An integrative, anti-
replacement becomes a part of most peoples’ lives. The
ageing health doctor will do a full history and send
effects of a person’s own natural hormones diminishing
you for relevant hormone blood tests. Your hormone
starts off subtle at first, but the symptoms will gradually
levels will be assessed and any deficiencies will be
increase as people progress through their forties
rectified with bio-identical hormones that are identical
and fifties. Mood swings, irritability, low libido, night
to your own naturally produced hormones, meaning
sweats in women and weaker muscle strength are the
the body is able to metabolise them. This significantly
most common symptoms. Without intervention, most
reduces any side effects.
BALANCED HORMONES EQUALS HARMONIUS AGING
BY DR BURT JOOSTE
people will age quicker and ultimately their chances for longevity will become decreased.
The chances of a longer lifespan is improved significantly by constantly balancing your hormone
The majority of women think they only need to balance
levels in your mid to latter years. Remember, the
their hormones when menopause kicks in and their
only way to slow, prevent or reverse aging is to
menstrual cycle ceases. This is way too late. Estrogen
slow, prevent or reverse the medical disorders or
dominance is common about ten to fifteen years
imbalances that cause ageing.
preceding menopause. This is because progesterone production drops far more rapidly than estrogeon as
Dr Burt Jooste is a general practitioner at Health
people age, creating an imbalance.
Renewal. He has a special interest in integrative, anti-ageing medicine and supplementation. To find
Let’s look at why women need testosterone. It provides
out more about balancing hormones and anti-aging
muscle tone, sharp cognitive functions and a healthy
contact www.healthrenewal.co.za / 0861 263972
libido. Like estrogen and progesterone, testosterone production reduces with age caused by declining ovarian and adrenal function. This causes symptoms like confusion, weight gain and poor muscle tone despite regular exercise. Testosterone levels will drop more than 33% during a woman’s menopausal years.
FEATURES // 69
IN CLOSING //
Photographer : Lana Photography
happening in the news. We have been inundated with it all to the point where I skim over the headlines so nonchalantly; I don’t even take most of it in.
TO END IT OFF
This past month there have been many, many things
With the Oscar Pistorius trial being broadcast in so many different mediums, on TV, Radio, live streaming online and constant updates on the various websites and social networks, there is almost too much information available. We have become jaded to the whole affair as a result of
How do we decide what is newsworthy in today’s society? Thuli Madonsela’s report on Nkandla is something that affects every single one of us in South Africa, however it was made light of with various pictures and memes in keeping with the Oscar Pistorius trial. “Kimye’s” cover on Vogue magazine shares media space with the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370, a true tragedy in which 239 people
HANS ROOSENSCHOON
this absolute overexposure.
possibly lost their lives… we have reached the point where we are confusing serious news with utter sensationalism. To me the most newsworthy event to have taken place in my no-sleep haze I am thoroughly enjoying being a new dad. I guess what I’m trying to say is we should not allow what is constantly blasted at us through social networks and news channels to affect our daily lives, take a step back and appreciate what you have, that is in the end what is important.
MANAGING DIRECTOR
decades is the birth of my daughter, Juliet. Even through
THE CLOSING // 71
SERVICE PROFESSIONALS EVENTS AFRICA FORUM CLIENT COCKTAIL Venue Hyatt Regency, Rosebank
Stationery A media
Registration ATek
Photography Creative Emporium Furniture Propstars
OMSFIN CONFERENCE Venues V & A Hotel Shimmy Beach Club Yacht Tigger 2 Photographer & Videographer aMedia Shuttles MK Exotics
SERVICE PROFESSIONALS WEDDINGS MADUSHI & STEFAN BUDDHIST CEREMONY Venue, Bar & Staffing & Catering Lagoon Beach Hotel African Drummers Five Seasons Music Sound and Lighting DNGPS Presentation Staging Floral DĂŠcor OKASIE Furniture A Place Photographer Vivid Blue Hair and Make-up Alicia Buckle Videographer FJS Transport MK Exotics
SERVICE PROFESSIONALS WEDDINGS MADUSHI & STEFAN CIVIL CEREMONY Sound and Lighting DNGPS Presentation Staging Stationery Secret Diary Hiring Top Table Floral Décor OKASIE Furniture A Place Hiring Exclusive Hire Draping To-netts Lighting Something Different Tablecloths Tablecloth Hiring Company Hair and Make-up Alicia Buckle Aleit Music and Entertainment Photographer Vivid Blue Minister Reverend Kevin Needham Videographer FJS DJ The Beat Collective Band Sound Image Band Bar and Staffing Shake and Serve Catering Stir Food Accommodation Erinvale Hotel Venue Laurent, Lourensford Estate Transport MK Exotics Wedding Cake Nelle Cakes Profiteroles Choc n Cherry VIP Travel Concierge Sure Gilt Edge (Corné Maritz) Hand Towels Le Towel
SERVICE PROVIDERS // 73