by Beverley Wilcock
There’s a remarkable woman in all of our lives. A granny with a sharp wit, an auntie who always comes through with the best advice, a sister who knows everything, a mom who holds it all together. There’s a 50% chance you’re included, too. Why are we still waiting for someone else to book the table, buy the gift, or light the candle? Chocolates melt. Flowers wilt. Perfume gathers dust on a shelf. If you’re going to celebrate the women who carry your world, do it properly. Here’s a curated list of thoughtful, unexpected ways to spoil the special women in your life, including the one staring back at you in the mirror.
Spill The Tea
There’s nothing quite like a good chat with your bestie(s) to spill some tea, right? Why not stick to the theme and enjoy a proper High Tea? Book a High Tea experience so your favourite ladies can spend the morning or afternoon enjoying delicious tiny sandwiches, perfect pastries, and of course, some actual tea. Joburg has many places to choose from, so we’ve highlighted three to give you some ideas. You can also read our article on where to indulge in High Tea for even more inspiration.
Wonderland-themed
Fairlawns serves morning and afternoon tea daily, and they also offer an Alice in Wonderland-themed High Tea adventure. Visit their website for more information.
Saxon Hotel
In the Piano Lounge at Saxon Hotel, enjoy morning or afternoon High Tea in pure luxury. Visit Saxon’s website for more details or to book your High Tea experience.
Olive & Plates Wits Club
Exclusive to Olive & Plates’ Wits Club restaurant, indulge in their afternoon High Tea on the first Saturday of every month. Bookings are essential, so make sure you book your next experience on their website.
Pampering Is A No-brainer
Sure, covering Mom’s next nail appointment or your sister’s blow wave is a thoughtful touch. But if you’re going to do it, why not go all in? A proper spa day. A massage that melts the month away. A facial that leaves her glowing like she’s just come back from a weekend in the bush. We’ve rounded up some standout spots to make booking easy, so you can skip the endless scrolling and go straight to the good part: the bliss.
Passara Wellness and Spa
Looking to really score some brownie points? You definitely need to book a treatment at Passara. They have five locations (Fourways, Hyde Park, Waterkloof, Midrand, and Bedfordview) to make it easy for you, plus a wide variety of treatments and packages. Visit their website for all the details.
Aronia Day Spa
If the world of hot stone therapy, lymphatic drainage, and collagen boosts feels like a foreign language, relax. You don’t need a diploma in spa science to get this right. Aronia Day Spa have gift vouchers to prevent any mishaps. You can buy a set amount or a certain treatment (if you’re sure you know what you’re doing) and know that your special lady will be pampered the way she deserves. Check out their website for all their offerings.
For The Creatives
For all the creative women, how about something a little more interactive and artistic? A little sip ‘n paint, maybe? There are many places in Joburg and different events to choose from where one can let loose and get those creative juices flowing. Experiences can often prove more valuable than material gifts, and most of them leave you with something you can take home anyway.
Color Café
Paint a lasting gift at Color Café. Here you can relax, enjoy some coffee (or wine!) while painting a piece of ceramic art of your choice. Your artwork will then be fired, glazed, and finished for you. Bookings are essential, so be sure to visit their website to make your booking.
Lillian Gray Art Parties
How about an art party? That’s exactly what you can book at Lillian Gray Fine Art School. They have a wide range for March, including a session dedicated to painting with coffee, and they are all on special! Visit their website so you don’t miss out.
Shop Till You Drop
There’s no shortage of malls and shopping centres in Joburg for all the shopaholics among us, but what about a more refined experience? Why not try an alternative shopping experience where every store is a unique, boutique-style establishment full of rare treasures? Shop till you drop...and ignore next month’s credit card statement.
44 Stanley
Not only does 44 Stanley offer a wide range of independent boutique stores, but you can also enjoy a movie together at the Bioscope Independent Cinema. It’s a two-for-one special and a place you can experience with all those special ladies in your life.
If you’re looking to spoil a remarkable woman in your life, or finally treat yourself without waiting for an excuse, Joburg offers more than enough memorable experiences to make it count. Forget the predictable chocolates and flowers and opt for something thoughtful and genuinely personal instead. This city does pampering and unique outings exceptionally well, so all that’s left is to book it, own the gesture, and enjoy the well-earned appreciation that follows.
