ABOUT ME

Hello,

I’m Renate – a lifestyle storyteller, travel enthusiast, fashion lover, foodie, wine appreciator, wife and mom.

Born and raised in a small Free State town, I now call Pretoria home, where I live with my husband Wikus and our two beautiful children, Catha and Elian. While we’re firmly rooted in city life, our hearts are forever pulled toward destinations where we can embrace slow, like the Karoo and the coast. We regularly travel to Cape Town and the Garden Route to reconnect with family and the landscapes we love.

A Life Layered in Style, Story and Experience

Travel has shaped my perspective in more ways than I can count. It’s in the moments of exploring hidden gems, sipping wine in tucked-away vineyards, strolling stylish streets and experiencing new cultures with my family that I feel most alive. When I’m not on the move, I’m curating beauty at home – rearranging interiors, adding greenery and indulging in the simple joys of well-placed scatter cushions, freshly-picked guavas and under-the-tree picnics.

Fashion has always been a deep passion of mine. I believe every woman can feel confident, elegant and timeless through thoughtful wardrobe choices. Whether I’m styling travel-ready outfits or classic capsule collections, it’s all about feeling comfortable while looking effortlessly chic.

What You’ll Find on SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY is where lifestyle meets the love of travel, food, fashion, family and fine wine. Here, I share:

• Family travel tips and curated itineraries for local and international getaways
• Style guides with fashion inspiration for everyday elegance and seasonal trends
• Food and wine experiences, from farm-to-table feasts to must-visit restaurants and wine estates
• Home styling ideas and lifestyle hacks to bring calm, joy and beauty into every day
• Motivational talks and workshops for women, creatives and those in the tourism and hospitality industries

Whether you’re chasing sunshine, planning your next escape, searching for a slow Sunday recipe, or simply looking to live a life of layered luxury, I hope this space inspires you to do it with intention and a little sparkle.

Let’s Journey Together

SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY is more than a blog – it’s a lifestyle. I’m so glad you’re here. Welcome to my family, my stories, my style and my journey. Let’s toast to life’s beautiful moments, both big and small!