The story of the birth and growth of the Ballito Lifestyle Centre is as fascinating and remarkable as the story of Ballito itself. Since its official opening 21 years ago, the team behind this beloved neighbourhood centre has walked the path of rapid development and incredible change alongside the Ballito community – and continues to...
Spring clean your wardrobe
They say ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’… but in this case, it’s more like one woman’s discarded fashion piece is another woman’s beloved find! Castaway Love is a boutique thrift and consignment store in Ballito Lifestyle Centre’s fashion node. It is owned by best friends Tanya Stanissis and Mandy Gray, who have sold...
Put the ‘Spring’ back in your step
The recent opening of The Reformer Pod at FITPOD, which offers group mat and group reformer classes by Stretch Pilates, is an exciting and welcome addition to The Studios at Ballito Lifestyle Centre. Husband and wife team Stefan and Jenna van der Merwe started Stretch Pilates six years ago. They have branches in Durban North,...
Strong women, delicious food
It all started with a simple, creamy custard slice … add to that the business acumen, creativity and entrepreneurial skills of three women in the same food-passionate family, and you have a recipe for sweet success! “It is crazy how famous these custard slices are,” says Dear Custard co-founder, Alexia Beretta. “People come from near...
Power woman
A born entrepreneur and natural leader, Michelle Royston is the epitome of a hardworking, determined woman who goes out and makes things happen! As both the founder and CEO of the WAXIT franchise and the owner of WAXIT Ballito at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre, Michelle still has big dreams of expanding her business even more....
Waxy O’Connors to open in Ballito
Waxy O’Connors is set to open a fabulous new restaurant at Ballito Lifestyle Centre at the end of October 2024, bringing the warmth and charm of a true South African Irish pub and restaurant to the heart of Ballito. According to owners, Christo Patinios and Felix Schmitz, Ballito can expect an authentic Irish restaurant founded...
Meet your barista
Whether you’re a flat white fundi, a double cappuccino drinker or a lover of lattes, there is no doubt that the person behind the coffee machine can make or break your daily dose of happiness! Here are the stories behind some of the friendliest and most enthusiastic baristas at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre. KHAYA HLAMBISA...
Mixology master
A mixer of drinks. A weaver of tales. A showman. Alchemy Bar mixologist Richie’s award-winning creative concoctions are, in many ways, indicative of the life he has lived so far… exciting, unusual and always with a little surprise up his sleeve!
The Art of Being a Gentleman
Determined to celebrate and share what it means to be a gentleman, Nick Gahagan’s Ballito Lifestyle Centre store, The Gentry, is a treasure trove of old-school trinkets and modern, masculine findings that encourage men to relax and appreciate life’s simple pleasures.From indulging in a superior quality cigar, to writing with a classic fountain pen or...
Father & son
Undoubtedly one of the most respected names in the industry, Gerald Wells has been a leading hair stylist, innovator and businessman for over 30 years. He is also a father of three. Just as ambitious, creative and talented is Gerald’s eldest son, Wesley, who has been working with his dad in his various business ventures...