Here’s what I know without a shadow of a doubt – I love my friends more than words can express. And before you accuse me of being Captain Obvious – “Everyone loves their friends, Lerato,” I hear you say – but let me present some evidence to you…
While I do eat oysters, I don’t love them. However, as you know, from Sanpellegrino to Laurent-Perrier, I love bubbles, and l’ve learnt that the two often go together. Nine years ago in Namibia’s Walvis Bay, my friend Petrina introduced me to oysters that made me turn a corner, and I was able to enjoy the summertime duo. I may not be wild about oysters, but I get it; it’s a communal thing Besides, it goes quickly because you rarely eat more than three.
Next, I will go to a second location, but make no mistake, this is where I draw the line. If I’m having a great night out, my friends can twist my arm to head to another venue, but I usually bow out when talks of a third location come up. Nothing good comes out of the third spot – it’s usually after midnight, and if you find yourself searching for an ATM at 2am – abort mission! Because even if the black don’t crack, black does get hungover, broken, and tired. But nothing proves how much I love my friends more than when I’m unsure of myself, nervous, or excited.
As l’ve grown older, I’ve lost some wonderful human beings simply because we were no longer growing towards each other. But as l’ve lost friends, l’ve also gained some incredible people who love me softly and fiercely. My core group of friends is based in Cape Town, and the others are in New York, so l’ve learnt how crucial being intentional is when you have long distance friendships.
My friends and I enjoy celebrating life, each other, and the small wins. This last issue of the year is about coming together with the people you love to create unforgettable memories. If you’re looking for a gift to buy (or hint at wanting it), Leigh Herringer has put together the ultimate gift guide of the season (page 35), and you should see the dancing-queen heels she’s chosen for you (page 22)! Eight years after interviewing Benoît Gouez, the cellarmaster at Moët & Chandon, I got to sit down with the Maison’s CEO and President, Sybille Scherer, at a Champagne Day dinner co-hosted with Thebe Magugu (page 48) to talk about African savoir-faire.
We’ve got advice on which drop-top to buy with your bonus (page 56), which beauty products you should pack for your holiday (page 24), and all you need to know about the must-visit hotel this festive season – Steyn City Hotel by Saxon. We are the first publication to exclusively shoot there (page 42), and I’m told The Don is the first drink you should order.
Whether you’re spending time with your family, friends, or significant other, remember that you made it to the end of 2024 when others didn’t. You’re blessed. Here’s to 2025, here’s to joy, and here’s to you!
And remember, if they suggest a third location, say ‘thanks, but no thanks’.
