We have a few options for everyone you need to shop for this Christmas: something for him, her and the kids. We also have a few stocking fillers and 'lust-haves' for you to check out. We hope this helps those of you who need ideas and giftspiration. Happy shopping, guys!
What Are You Looking For?
Gifts For Her
Gifts For Him
Gifts For Kids
Lust-Haves
Stocking Fillers
Spend & WIN At Northgate!
Planning on doing some of your festive shopping at Northgate Shopping Centre this holiday season? Then you'll definitely not want to miss out on their Spend & Win Competition. Spend R150 or more at any Northgate Shopping Centre store, answer a simple question on their website, and you’ll be in the running to WIN one of 5 Big Boy Scooters bi-weekly, from 23 November 2020 to 30 January 2021. Click here to find out more about the competition and how to enter.
For Her
For that special lady in your life, your loving mother, your wise grandmother, the fun aunt, the best sister in the world, your best friend – we have a selection of stunning gifts for her that you can choose from. From skincare goodies and gift sets to perfume, beauty treats and more, we have it all covered if you’re fresh out of ideas.
For Him
Having trouble finding the perfect gifts for the important men in your life? Not a problem... grab some giftspiration here! We were thinking Sorbet MAN treats, Jack Daniel's gift sets, beard kits, an awesome Man Crate (click through to find out what that is), grooming items and maybe even some cologne. What do you think? There are so many awesome gifts out there for men, such a pity we can't list them all!
For Kids
Christmas gift shopping for the kids is easy! Just find out what they love, head to your closest toy store and shop ‘til you drop. It’s that simple. But sometimes it's nice to surprise them with something they weren't expecting. We have options for you to suss out from toys for boys and girls, games, tech gadgets and even a few clothing necessities with their favourite cartoon characters on them.
Luxurious Lust-Haves
We all have a something expensive and extravagant that we lust after, be it a stunning Louis Vuitton handbag, a Rolex watch, Le Creuset kitchenware for the food savvy, or a Nescafé Dolce Gusto coffee machine. So, if you’re looking to spoil a loved one (or yourself) with a ‘lust have’, check out our favourite luxury gifts here.
Stocking Fillers
If you’re taking up the tradition of hanging those Christmas stockings this year, you’ll definitely need to find a few bits and bobs as stocking fillers. Think small toys, some festive candy and chocolates, a cute pair of socks, phone covers, stationery for the little ones and gimmicky items to put a smile on your loved ones’ faces. Here are a few ideas.
Happy Holidays!
Click here for more 2020 Holiday Season content!
What Is It?
The Bridal Expo, hosted at Oakfield Farm, is ready to wow brides-to-be at their two day expo.
The expo is a great opportunity for brides to find all the inspiration they need for their dream wedding.
Expect wedding inspiration, great food, live entertainment and fantastic prizes to be won at the fashion show each day.
Get your tickets now!
When Is It?
Saturday, 25 January 2020 - Sunday, 26 January 2020 from 09:30.
Where Is It?
Oakfield Farm, Beyers Naudé Drive, Krugersdorp, Johannesburg, Gauteng.
How Much Is It?
Tickets are R50 - R100 per person, get your tickets here.
For More Information
For more information, click here.
What is Inktober?
Artist, Jake Parker pioneered the global Inktober initiative in 2009. Ten years on, it has become a worldwide phenomenon, with thousands of artists participating each October. Thirty days of drawing prompts are posted at the start of the month, encouraging artists to enhance their skills and confidence by drawing something based on each day's prompt. You can take it day by day, a week at a time or only do as many as you have time for. The ultimate goal of Inktober is to encourage positive drawing habits. So, stop making those excuses and get drawing! After all, practice makes perfect.
The Rules
While Inktober is a creative challenge, there are a couple of guidelines you must follow:
- Draw in ink (you can do pencil sketches first).
- Post your drawings on social media with the hashtags #inktober and #inktober2019.
- Have as much fun as possible!
Here is the official list of prompts for Inktober 2019, to get you on your way to doodle mastery:
Now, remember that these prompts need not be taken literally. You may interpret them however you wish. All drawing styles are encouraged too, so whether you have an MFA in illustration or are an amateur doodler, anything goes. It's all about unleashing your creativity.
Inner City Inspiration
Where better to find artistic inspiration than Johannesburg? The city is filled with interesting characters, eclectic architecture and the beauty of nature interwoven with man-made elements. If the Inktober 2019 prompt list isn't enough to get your creative juices flowing, check out these awesome events happening in the city.
Using Art To Share Stories: Drop-In Drawing with Bronwen Findlay
How can we use art to share our stories? While an artist might use a pencil or paintbrush, a photographer shares what they see through a camera. WITS Art Museum hosts monthly Drop-In Drawing events themed around the current exhibitions on show at the gallery. This month's Drop-In Drawing event explores techniques used by Daylin Paul to share the stories in the Broken Land exhibition, which will be exhibited until the end of October. In this Drop-In Drawing session, you will use Daylon's techniques to tell your stories and create your own artwork.
When Is It?
Tuesday, 08 October 2019 - Sunday, 27 October 2019.
Where Is It?
WITS Arts Museum, Cnr Jorissen & Bertha Streets, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Free.
Click here for more information.
YayMakers Paint Nite
YayMakers are the official hosts of Paint Nite Johannesburg. These events take place throughout the city at restaurants, bars and art schools. Piza ē Vino is a regular host of Paint Nite events at their various outlets across Joburg. This October, their Melrose Arch branch brings you the Hot, Cold, Wet and Falling challenge - all Paint Nite participants must paint their own tree with representations of the four seasons. Your host and instructor, Annalize Carstens, will guide you through various techniques and tricks to create your very own masterpiece!
When Is It?
Tuesday, 15 October 2019 at 19:00.
Where Is It?
Piza ē Vino Melrose Arch, The Piazza, Birnam, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R610 per person. Get yours here.
Click here for more information.
Mid-Week Evening Figure Study
Have you ever wanted to learn the art of figure drawing? Join the mid-week evening figure study group in Sandton to practice your skills at drawing from real life. Basic materials are supplied, so you need not lug your easel all the way to class. This is an open space, with sharing and encouragement abound. Hosted by artist and photographer, André Clements, these classes involve Self Directed Teaching, with guidance offered from André and your fellow artists.
When Is It?
The next class takes place on Wednesday, 16 October 2019 at 18:30.
Where Is It?
Westway Street, Sandton, Johannesburg.
**Contact André on 082 812 0549 or [email protected] to receive the full address.
How Much Is It?
Classes cost R275 per person. Please RSVP as soon as possible.
Click here for more information.
Night of 1000 Drawings
The 2020 Night of 1000 Drawings exhibition is only six months away! So you better get started on those doodles. Night of 1000 Drawings is the largest inner city A-5 art exhibition. Taking place in March 2020, this weekend event promises to be even bigger and better than previous years.
You can host your own doodle event or participate as an individual. All you need to do is gather up a bunch of friends, grab a few sheets of A5 paper and get doodling! Submit your artworks to any participating coffee shop, college, gallery or tattoo shop where you’ll find a 1000 Drawings drop-off box.
Why not dedicate this Inktober to starting your doodle collection? If you manage all 30 days of prompts, you'll have more than enough to submit by next March!
When Is It?
Friday, 27 March 2020 - Sunday, 29 March 2020.
Where Is It?
Victoria Yards, 16 Viljoen St, Lorentzville, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R100 per person. And you may purchase art pieces for R150 each. Proceeds go towards worthy non-profit organisations.
Click here for more information.
Happy drawing!
Builders Warehouse Boksburg Had A Makeover!
Ever found shopping for home improvements, DIY projects and hardware tedious rather than enjoyable? Well, that is now a thing of the past. Adding excitement into the hardware and DIY experience, Builders has created a brand-new store concept that's making its debut at Builders Warehouse Boksburg this week (01 - 05 May 2019, if you're looking for exact dates). Not only can you expect a brand-new look and feel to the well-known brand, but you can also expect new offerings and innovations, as well as top-notch convenience for all your handy needs.
The Boksburg store will set the benchmark for all new builds and renovations across the country. The store boasts a combination of the latest technology trends along with helpful assistance and service to inform and inspire customers to make the best DIY, home improvement and construction choices for their spaces and budget.
What To Expect
Affordable solutions and value-for-money is what influenced the store's new layout and experiential factor. They have installed free WiFi and 44 high-definition screens, allowing customers to place orders in store at various departments while also shopping Builder's extended ranges, checking out promotions and product information or searching for some DIY inspiration.
Also, together with Vodacom, Builders will become a player in the digital space by offering bespoke digital integration services for homeowners. A Smart Home hub will offer customers customised solutions to suite their homes and pockets.
They'll also introduce their new flatpack modular furniture, offering a comprehensive range in complete furniture solutions at competitive prices. Digital and physical displays will allow customers to find the perfect solution for their home. Other features of the revamped store include the Vida e Caffè nearby, a new design and installation service for home improvement projects, a 3D printing service and the introduction of a filtered water offering from Oasis Water.
Don't Miss Their Store Opening Specials
To celebrate this exciting occasion, Builders Warehouse Boksburg will have some awesome opening specials in store, visit Builders Warehouse Boksburg from Wednesday, 01 May 2019 – Sunday, 05 May 2019 to see what's up their sleeve. Don't miss out.
For More Information
For more information on Builders Warehouse and their hardware and DIY solutions, visit www.builders.co.za. You can also contact them on 060 008 923 or 011 897 0212, or [email protected].
Also, don't forget to give them a follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn.
Here's Gavin's Story
I recently began using a hashtag as part of my personal mantra: #MyImpossible. It forms an integral part of my mission: I uncover a supportive world of honesty, openness and trust where people are inspired to do their impossible by showing them how I do mine.
That’s why I am writing this very piece. Someone saw that I had done #MyImpossible and thought it was worth sharing.
To give this context, it’s important for me to share with you that at school, I was not what one may have called “sporting-gifted”. In fact, it would be closer to the truth to say that I hated sport and this, in a school that prized sporting achievements above all else, by a country mile. It’s not as though I compensated with outstanding academic results either, AD/HD kept me from the victor ludorum boards in the Springs Boys High School hall too.
In general, sport has been something I did because I felt I had too, not because I either enjoyed it or felt called by a passion to excel.
Here’s a bit from a recent post to the ubiquitous Facebook:
“Last year this time I sat here, having breakfast, watching the Parkrunners. I weighed 128kgs and if I recall correctly had steak, egg and chips for brekkie. This morning I weigh in at 86.3 and instead of watching them, Ingrid Lotze and I ran the Uvongo Parkrun. Ingrid Lotze did #HerImpossible by running her first ever 5kms, let alone completing a running Parkrun. How things change. No more than a year ago Ingrid said, “I hate running, I will never run”. #amazeballs #MyImpossible? 7:22 min/km pace felt pedestrian.”
Image: #MyImpossible - Gavin Moffat © 2018
That’s #MyImpossible in a nutshell. A year ago, I was fat and lazy. I weighed a lot. My clothes were in a continual shrinking cycle. I no longer wanted to go SCUBA diving because not only could I not fit into my wetsuit, but I felt out of breath doing the simple kit up and water-entry procedures that are the mainstay of preparation. I could not tie my shoe laces without feeling the pressure of all that fat on my lungs. Getting out of bed was a chore and I had developed peroneal tendonitis, among other ailments. My internal thermostat continually blew its gasket and I overheated at the mere thought of 25 degrees Celsius. I would climb on a bicycle but couldn’t manage to cycle very far. We stopped going for walks because it was such a mission for me.
Yes, the life of fat-me. The previous-me. The man I now refer to as fat-Gavin. I feel a bit of shame when I look back at who I was and what I looked like. I was big and 3XLs were often insufficient to keep my bulk hidden, which of course, made me look all the worse because you can’t hide a body that large behind anything XXXL without looking like “you’re trying to hide a body that large behind something XXXL”.
It’s not about shaming anyone else, it’s about accepting that I was way overweight and needed to do something about it.
Image: #MyImpossible - Gavin Moffat © 2018
I did something drastic and as I write this, I weigh in at 84.9 kilograms. I do 7 training sessions, 6 days a week. I have just come from a wonderful hour and 46 minutes of mountain biking around a great park called Clearwater Trails near Port Edward. Yesterday, I did a 45-minute cycle along a terrifying strip of the R61 toll road with trucks, cars and taxis zipping by at a wicked and buffeting rate of knots. This Saturday, I will do another new Parkrun, which I will be able to run.
I have had many experiences of #MyImpossible in 2018. I finished my first 100km cycle race since 2010. I ran my first 5km since I was 20. I fitted into a size 34 pair of Levi’s. I no longer have anything in my cupboard larger than a Large. I walk with a spring in my step. Possibly the most amazing was completing my first sprint triathlon in April. I crossed the line, jumped into my wife’s outstretched arms and cried. #MyImpossible and that’s not the crying.
I have gone from that-Gavin to this-Gavin. I won’t shame that-Gavin. He is still me. He will always be me. But, I will no longer be him. I chose to live a different life.
Image: #MyImpossible - Gavin Moffat © 2018
And, that’s what it all comes down to, choice. In almost every situation and circumstance we have a choice. It may not feel like it. It may be a choice you feel is not a choice. It may be Hobson’s choice. It doesn’t matter. You still have. A choice. You can choose. You are empowered to choose. That’s one of the things that makes us humans and supposedly, at the top of the food chain.
And, its starts small. With one choice. I choose to do one thing differently today for a different outcome tomorrow.
Choose differently. The fat-Gavin did and now he’s this-Gavin. The one who’s doing some cool stuff and, accidentally (on purpose), inspiring others to try and shoot for #TheirImpossible.
As part of #MyImpossible journey, I am doing talks for corporates on The Power and Impact of Choice. Email me on [email protected] for further information.
Image: #MyImpossible - Gavin Moffat © 2018
About Gavin Moffat
Gavin Moffat, pothole spotter, join.the.dots
Gavin Moffat is a speaker, writer and common-sense evangelist. As the co-founder and pothole spotter of join.the.dots, he teaches game-changing techniques for busting through "it's complicated", cultivating clear thinking, and boosting common sense.
He leads workshops and trainings that bring clarity to individuals, teams and workplaces. His focus is on creating real-world results in which teams cut through the clutter and meaningful productivity skyrockets.
Through speaking, writing, training, consulting and coaching, he shares tools, thinking techniques and questions that challenge the accepted norm and lead to “aha” moments that translate into clarity, new skills and shifts in people’s productive and effective work lives.
Gavin is a technical diver, lapsed microlight pilot, composer of electronic music, and author of the soon-to-be published book titled “Swimming with Sharks - Simple business guidelines for a complex world”.
What Is It?
Autumn has arrived! And you wouldn't believe it, but it's also planting season (well, those of us who aren't green thumbs wouldn't believe it). There are red, orange and brown leaves everywhere, as well as the heady scent of fresh herbs and a chill in the air. With a new season comes new ideas and inspiration, which is why you need to visit The Autumn Garden Show at The Herb Farm.
Here, you can wander around an enchanting and exclusive herb garden, filled with beautifully fragrant plants arranged in spirals, formal beds complete with statues and fountains, roses in rounds and flowering gems lining the pathways. Shop till you drop and take home top tips from gardening gurus at the free Atlantic Talks and Demos. Relax on the Tipple Terrace and bring the kids along to The Starke Ayres Kidz Zone. The Autumn Garden Show is a must, so get your tickets as soon as possible.
When Is It?
Friday, 03 April 2020 - Sunday, 05 April 2020 from 09:00 - 17:00 daily.
Where Is It?
The Herb Farm, 264 Summit Road, Bridle Park, Midrand, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost between R20 - R80 per person and can be purchased at Webtickets.
For More Information
For more information about this event, visit their website. You can also follow event updates on the Herb Farm's Facebook page.
Rejuvenate With A Coat Of Paint
Summer is all about getting outdoors and enjoying the lovely weather, and what better way to do that than by brightening up your home with a fresh coat of paint. And for all your painting needs, the Builders Paint catalogue is packed with plenty of possibilities for restoring and rejuvenating your home with a fresh pop of colour. Subscribe to the Builders newsletter for weekly inspiration and explore the Builders website for more projects and advice.
There's A Wide Range Of Paint Accessories To Choose From
At Builders, you’ll find a wide range of paintable wallpaper. Whether you use it on an entire wall, on a panel or just on the inner lining of a bookcase, paintable wallpaper is an inspiring choice for showstopping textures. Then, breathe some life into your old furniture or your garden pots with a splash or a spray of paint. You’ll have fun transforming your tired old chairs and livening up your living space with a dash of colour.
Register Online & Shop Now
Now that you’re freshly inspired, get to Builders and explore the full range of paint options – or register to shop online. This month, you could win your share of R70 000 in Builders vouchers! Sign up today to receive daily deals, DIY inspiration and more, and be entered automatically into the lucky draw. This competition is valid from 17 October 2017 to 12 November 2017. Ts&Cs apply.
For More Information
For more information or to register and shop online, visit Builders' website at www.builders.co.za.
Also, check them out on Facebook and Instagram.
What Is It?
Join Africa's largest gathering of executives, professionals and entrepreneurs at Leaderex, taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre. Guests will have the opportunity to get inspired by over 250 masterclasses, 500 speakers, 5 000 visitors including top CEOs and thought leaders in the industry. This event doesn't only give you access to top-notch and inspirational speakers, but you'll also get to:
- Attend free master classes
- Prepare for a digital future
- Advance your career
- Start or grow a business
- Explore business education
- Unlock your creativity
- Receive one-on-one coaching.
Click here to register to attend.
When Is It?
Tuesday, 04 September 2018 from 08:00 to 20:00.
Where Is It?
Sandton Convention Centre, 61 Maude Street, Sandton, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Entry is FREE if you register at www.leaderex.com.
For More Information
For more information about this event, visit www.leaderex.com.
Also, check them out on Facebook and Twitter.
What Is It?
Brides-to-be, do you need a little inspiration for your wedding day or want to spend an afternoon out with your bridesmaids? Whatever the reason, don't miss out on this exclusive event. The Hilton Sandton will be hosting the Exclusive Bridal Fair, offering the finest of everything you need to bring your dream wedding to reality. There will be plenty of top wedding suppliers showcasing their services and products on the day.
When Is It?
Sunday, 14 April 2019 from 10:00 – 15:00.
Where Is It?
The Hilton Sandton, 138 Rivonia Road, Sandton, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
R40 per person and tickets are available at Quicket.
For More Information
For more information about this event, visit SA Bridal Fairs.
This event offered a fantastic platform for a very special and unique group of people – working mothers. Moms received the opportunity toe learn more about the unique challenges they face, engage with others to find solutions and to make being a working mother a little easier to manage. This was an opportunity to learn to achieve a more sustainable work-life balance.
The Working Mothers Expo offered working moms a long overdue place and space to take a well earned, precious moment for themselves and to share ideas and solutions to match their unique needs and concerns. Most importantly it is reassuring to be reminded that working mothers are not alone in this. All mothers will find a great deal of support and inspiration, all within an environment which is designed to make them feel pampered and appreciated -the way they so rightly deserve.
One of the most exciting aspects of the expo will be the Speaker’s Corner, which will feature some of the country’s most influential working mothers sharing their inspiration and insights into fulfilling their many daily roles of wife, partner, mother, business owner, professional, daughter, sister and friend. The expo will also allow working mothers access to products and services that will help them to manage their busy lives.
Exhibitors at the expo will cover a variety of interests such as Business and Career Opportunities, Personal Development, Financial Health, Returning to the Workforce, Child Development and Stimulation, Holiday Solutions, Childcare, Lifestyle and Home Care, Self-Care, and Health and Beauty. This is the ideal opportunity for mothers to browse through the exhibition, take some time to listen to inspirational speakers, meet up with like-minded women, sip on a cappuccino while reading a good book, or even relax with a much-needed massage or a manicure for a mini pamper session.
For more information about the Working Mothers Expo, visit www.workingmothersexpo.com.