SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

Renate Engelbrecht
  • 0.0 (0)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast that serves as an extension of the blog, Suitcase & Chardonnay, on which host, Renate Engelbrecht talks about all things life, food, wine, travel and fashion. Prepare for a 'theatre of the mind' experience as Engelbrecht dives into interesting lifestyle conversations with her specially selected guests. Whether it's a winemaker, a chef, a fashion designer or a travel guru, the aim is to share some of life's best experiences with you. So, get ready to journey with your host and her guests from wherever you are!

  1. 12H AGO

    S2 E3: Slow Journalism & Storytelling: Inside the Launch of Die Papier

    In this episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, Renate Engelbrecht sits down with Barnard Beukman, editor of Die Papier, to talk about the bold and timely launch of a brand-new Afrikaans print newspaper in a fast-moving digital world. What does “slow journalism” really mean today? Why does print still matter - and who is it for? And how do storytelling, culture and community intersect in a way that keeps readers coming back, week after week? In this thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation, Beukman and Engelbrecht explore the power of storytelling, the challenges of launching a national publication (and that in print!), and the deeper role of media in shaping how we experience news, lifestyle and the rhythms of life. Topics discussed in this episode include: - Why print still has a place in modern life - The vision and inspiration behind Die Papier - The challenges and realities of launching a new publication - How journalism connects communities and preserves culture - The importance of slowing down and engaging more deeply with stories If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with a friend and follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY for more conversations around lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine. CHAPTERS: 00:00 — Welcome to SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY 00:28 — What to Expect in Season Two 01:19 — Today’s Topic: Can Print Still Matter? 02:10 — Introducing Barnard Beukman 02:31 — Why Launch a Newspaper Today? 03:30 — The Return of Tangible Media 04:06 — Trust, Credibility and the Press Code 06:40 — The Emotional Experience of Print 07:40 — How Readers Engage Differently with Newspapers 09:00 — Reaching Younger Readers 10:19 — Media Integration: Print, Digital and Podcasts 10:54 — Recognising the Demand for Print Again 11:50 — What Readers Say They Missed 13:00 — Unexpected Ways People Use Newspapers 14:29 — How Newspapers Must Adapt for the Future 15:15 — Print in Classrooms and Younger Audiences Find the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog here: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

    31 min

  2. FEB 11

    S2 E2: Last-Minute Luxuries for Valentine's Day

    Valentine’s Day is almost here… and sometimes the most beautiful moments aren’t the ones planned months in advance, but the ones created spontaneously - with intention, creativity and a few well-chosen luxuries. In this episode of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY, I share last-minute ideas to make Valentine’s Day feel beautiful and meaningful - from setting the mood at home and effortless fashion touches, to simple entertaining ideas, wine suggestions, and ways to rediscover your own city through fresh eyes. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, or simply romanticising your own life, this episode is your reminder that luxury, in its truest form, is simply presence. Because a beautiful life isn’t built in grand gestures… it’s built in small, intentional moments, every day. Listen to and watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@suitcasechardonnay301/podcasts Read more on the blog: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Follow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Romantic Waterside Stays: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/top-romantic-waterside-stays-to-book-in-south-africa-now/

    26 min

  3. FEB 4

    S2 E1: Small Luxuries That Make A House A Home

    Luxury isn’t about price tags - it’s about intention, atmosphere and the small rituals that make everyday life feel beautiful. In this episode of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast, we explore simple, affordable ways to turn your house into a home and romanticise your life through thoughtful details that don’t require a big budget. From creating quiet corners and sensory rituals to elevating your daily routines with scent, texture, lighting and slow-living habits, this conversation is all about finding luxury in the ordinary. Think soft linens, intentional styling, meaningful objects, and moments of presence that bring comfort, calm and joy into your space. Whether you live in a small apartment or a family home, this episode will inspire you to curate a lifestyle that feels layered, personal and deeply lived-in - proof that true luxury is less about things and more about how you experience them. ✨ Perfect for lovers of slow living, intentional lifestyle design, cosy home rituals and accessible luxury.🎧 Don’t forget to follow or save the episode, and explore more home, lifestyle and travel inspiration on the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog. Pretoria's Best Flower Shops and Flower Picking Spots: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/the-ultimate-fresh-flower-shops-and-picking-spots-in-pretoria/ Proudly South African Sleepwear and Loungewear: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/proudly-south-african-sleepwear-slow-fashion-to-invest-in/

    38 min

  4. 11/26/2025

    Episode 34: Behind the Scenes of SA’s Creative Industry: KAMERS/Makers on Fast Fashion & the Future of Local

    This episode takes us into the heart of South Africa’s creative economy, because the things we wear, the objects we cherish, the spaces we curate, and the flavours we love all begin with a maker — a real human with a real story. And those stories are under threat. I’m joining you from the vibrant KAMERS/Makers market, a cornerstone of local craftsmanship and one of the most influential creative platforms on the continent. With me is Ben-Carl Havemann, CEO and Co-Owner of KAMERS/Makers, and together we unpack a pressing issue affecting consumers, entrepreneurs, and the broader South African economy: the rapid influx of cheap imported goods and what it means for our artisans, our jobs, and our cultural identity. This conversation is an invitation — not just to shop local, but to understand why it matters. *This episode is sponsored by KAMERS/Makers. 00:00 — Welcome to Suitcase & Chardonnay 00:14 — The Heart of SA’s Creative Economy 00:27 — Live from KAMERS/Makers 00:50 — Meet Ben-Carl Hawemann 01:04 — The Power of a Creative Platform 01:36 — A Rainy Tuesday & a Heavy Topic 01:54 — The Real Impact of Cheap Imports in SA 02:34 — Job Losses and Economic Fallout 02:47 — Are Artisans Feeling the Pressure? 03:28 — The Resilience of South African Creatives 06:11 — Are We Misled About “Imported is Better”? 06:42 — Why Local Manufacturing Must Scale 07:36 — The Skills Gap: Who Will Make the Clothes? 08:08 — A New Hope: The Craft School in Stellenbosch 08:57 — Do Consumers Understand the Long-term Cost? 09:15 — What Needs to Change at Government Level 09:54 — Fast Fashion: The Hidden Crisis 10:20 — What Happens When We Lose Our Makers? 10:48 — The Theft of Ideas & the Creative Threat KAMERS/Makers: https://www.kamers.co.za/ Book tickets to the Sandton event running from 25 - 30 November: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/328806-kamersmakers-sandton-summer-2025/#/ SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Follow SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ SUBSCRIBE to the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY newsletter

    25 min

  5. 11/18/2025

    Episode 33: What No One Tells You About Working For Yourself

    This episode is a little different… It’s just you and me, diving into the truth about working for yourself. Not the Instagram version, not the highlight reel — the real, layered, beautiful, messy, and wildly rewarding journey of building a creative business from scratch. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes, what no one tells you, or what I’ve learnt while juggling a blog, a podcast, a freelance writing career, being a wife and mom, the odd social media post and some consulting on the side — this one’s for you. I’m answering the questions I get asked most often, from clients and curious listeners and even some close family members. While much of this episode might be based on my work under the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY brand, it’s relevant to anyone building a business, dreaming of working for themselves or wanting to understand how it works to juggle it all. Visit the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog if you’re a keen reader of lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine content and follow SUITCASE AND CHARDONNAY on: Instagram: instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Facebook: facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay Pinterest: za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ You can also join the WhatsApp Channel here. And, subscribe to the weekly newsletter here.

    35 min

  6. 11/10/2025

    Episode 32: Taj Hotels Expands Into Africa

    The Taj Cape Town has a way of drawing one in, spoiling you to bits and then inspiring you to go out and explore. Its impressive façade is one that tells many a story of the Mother City, with the 5-star hotel occupying a building that used to be the South African Reserve Bank. I’ve stayed at this Taj Hotels property before, but following recent refurbishments of its rooms and suites, I couldn’t resist revisiting. While I was there, I sat down with Mark Wernich, the Cluster General Manager Africa and Business Development Africa for sub-Saharan Africa for the Taj brand. Apart from Taj Cape Town’s refurbishments, the hotel brand has some exciting expansions up its sleeve... TAJ HOTELS: https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Podcast Chapters: Taj Cape Town & Taj Hotels’ Safari Expansion 00:00 – Welcome to the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY Podcast Renate introduces the podcast, her blog, and what listeners can expect from this lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine-focused platform. 01:20 – Reflections on the Taj Cape Town Experience Renate shares her love for the Taj Cape Town’s heritage, recent refurbishments and her previous stays at this iconic hotel. 02:30 – Introducing Guest: Mark Wernich Meet the man behind the Taj Hotels’ African operations and hear what’s next for the brand. 03:10 – Taj Hotels’ Expansion into the African Safari Market Mark reveals exciting plans to launch new safari lodges across Africa and discusses what makes this move so significant. 04:45 – The Taj Experience: Heritage Meets the African Bush How Taj’s signature hospitality, heritage and sustainability values will merge with authentic African experiences. 06:00 – Launch Timeline and Upcoming Destinations Details on when and where the first Taj safari lodges will open - including the Greater Kruger and Serengeti properties. 07:15 – Refurbishments at the Taj Cape Town Mark talks about the newly designed rooms, inspired by Cape Town’s fynbos and Indian heritage. 08:30 – Farm-to-Table Dining and Sustainability A conversation about Taj Cape Town’s approach to local sourcing, sustainability and foraging-driven dining experiences. 10:00 – The Culinary Vision for Taj’s Safari Lodges What guests can expect from the new lodges’ culinary journeys - Indian tandoors, bush dining and vegetarian excellence. 11:40 – Connecting City and Safari: A Triangular Travel Experience How Taj plans to package Cape Town, the winelands and the African bush into one seamless luxury journey. 13:10 – Creating Local Employment and Community Upliftment Mark discusses Taj’s commitment to hiring locally, supporting underprivileged communities and sustainable tourism. 14:20 – Wellness and Spa Experiences in the Wild Plans for unique spa offerings at the safari lodges, featuring yoga decks, cold/hot therapies and breathtaking Drakensberg views. 15:30 – Closing Thoughts: Bringing Safari to the Taj Brand Mark shares his enthusiasm for this new chapter in African hospitality. 16:20 – Final Thoughts from Renate Renate wraps up the interview, reflects on Taj’s expansion and invites listeners to read more on the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog. 17:10 – What’s Next for the Podcast A sneak peek at what’s ahead for the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY Podcast, including the new season launching February 2026.

    15 min

  7. 11/04/2025

    Episode 31: Stepping Back in Time - The Living Museum of Soetmelksvlei

    Probably one of the most authentic ways in which to step back in time, Babylonstoren's Soetmelksvlei is a South African bucket list item like no other. This working farm - ultimately a living museum - showcases what farm life was like in the 19th century, allowing one to explore and learn more about various skills that have mostly been forgotten. From enjoying freshly baked roosterkoek and farm bread with flour milled at their on-site, water powered mill, to exploring the beautifully curated farmhouse with its tangible stories and transporting scents, it’s an incredible, live display of South African heritage one needs to visit at least once. I sat down with Babylonstoren’s very own Museologist, Elsa Vogts, to learn more about the experience before I headed out there myself, and also got to learn a little bit more about her involvement in other exciting projects at Babylonstoren... 0:00 – Introduction Exploring lifestyle, travel, fashion, food & wine — and today, a truly immersive South African heritage experience. 0:23 – A Step Back in Time An introduction to Soetmelksvlei — Babylonstoren’s living farm museum that captures 19th-century life in the Cape Winelands. 1:20 – Meet the Museologist: Elsa Vogts Renate sits down with Babylonstoren’s museologist, Elsa Vogts, to discuss her fascinating role and the art of storytelling through museums. 2:03 – What is Museology? Elsa explains the meaning behind museology and shares how her work bridges art, history, and experience. 2:31 – The Story of Wine Museum Inside Babylonstoren’s first museum — where visitors learn the story, culture, and science behind South African wine. 3:33 – Soetmelksvlei: The Living Farm Experience Elsa shares the inspiration behind Soetmelksvlei — a journey into slow living, forgotten crafts, and traditional farm life. 5:02 – How to Visit Soetmelksvlei How to get there, what to expect, and why it’s a full-day experience for families, kids, and curious travellers. 6:01 – Crafts, Skills & Living Heritage From blacksmithing and wagon wheel making to water mills and farm baking — preserving artisanal skills that shaped the past. 7:19 – The Power of the Senses in Slow Tourism Elsa and Renate discuss sensory travel, nostalgia, and the beauty of disconnecting from the digital world. 8:52 – Stories, Nostalgia & Connection How Soetmelksvlei connects people through shared memories, storytelling, and cultural roots. 9:48 – Workshops & Handcrafted Learning Learn how guests can participate in hands-on workshops — from quilting to leatherwork — and rediscover the joy of making. 10:59 – The Value of Working with Your Hands Why craftsmanship builds confidence, memory, and mindfulness — and why it matters today. 11:16 – Learning from History to Shape the Future How understanding the past informs sustainable, mindful living for the future. 12:38 – Elsa’s Background in Art & Design A creative journey: how an artist became a museologist — and the importance of storytelling in curating spaces. 13:35 – Designing for Every Generation Creating museum experiences that inspire both adults and children at Babylonstoren. 14:02 – Storytelling for Kids at Soetmelksvlei Hands-on learning for children — from milk separation demos to interactive farm play zones. 15:02 – Family-Friendly Farm Fun Outdoor play, sensory exploration, and educational experiences that make Soetmelksvlei perfect for family day trips. 16:18 – A Day Trip Worth Taking Why Soetmelksvlei is a celebration of self-sufficiency, artistry, and South African heritage — a must-visit for every family. 17:23 – Closing Thoughts & What’s Next BABYLONSTOREN: https://babylonstoren.com/ SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY: Blog: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

    18 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    Episode 30: Vergenoegd Löw - Farm to Table Experiences That Tell Stories

    Chef Michelle Theron from Vergenoegd Löw has come to understand the value of slowing down and now incorporates that into her approach when it comes to menu planning, plating and food and wine experiences. She explains that allowing the farm’s inner workings to dictate her pace has given her new perspective and she now sees things that might have previously gone unnoticed. In the end, it’s those things that inspire her creativity in the kitchen, making her a chef to be reckoned with and calling for an exciting new chapter where the estate and its refurb is concerned… Come late summer, you’ll also be able to experience it all in a whole new light, with delightful deck dining, Sunday lunches, pre-dinner tastings, farm teas and more. I, for one, am incredibly excited to return to Vergenoegd Löw for the renewed hospitality experience. Podcast Chapters: 00:00 – 00:56 | A Taste of South Africa A glimpse into what the episode is about. Chef Michelle Theron introduces the sensory experience behind Vergenoegd Löw’s Indigenous Tasting – from bokkoms and vetkoek to biltong and spice stories. 00:56 – 02:20 | Welcome to SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY Host Renate Engelbrecht introduces the show, thanks listeners for their continued support, and celebrates reaching 30 episodes. 02:20 – 02:59 | Meet Chef Michelle Theron An introduction to Chef Michelle Theron’s philosophy of slowing down and how the farm’s rhythm inspires her culinary creativity. 02:59 – 04:45 | The Indigenous Tasting Experience Michelle explains how the Indigenous Tasting at Vergenoegd Löw began and how each element connects guests to the estate’s unique terroir. 04:45 – 05:59 | The Story Behind the Plate The design of the circular tasting board, sustainable sourcing, and storytelling through every ingredient. 05:59 – 07:12 | Nostalgia on a Plate Renate and Michelle discuss South African nostalgia through flavours like spekboom and rusks, and how they tie into the wine pairings. 07:12 – 09:09 | Celebrating Indigenous Cape Cuisine Michelle shares her love for Cape Winelands cuisine, working with terroir and sea influence, and reimagining heritage recipes. 09:09 – 10:13 | From Farm Waste to Flavour Innovation Chef Michelle details how she transforms vegetable offcuts into salts and rubs – closing the sustainability loop. 10:13 – 12:02 | The Animals’ Role in the Vineyard Exploring the farm ecosystem where ducks, chickens, and Dexter cattle play integral roles in the estate’s sustainability. 12:02 – 15:05 | Slow Living, Creativity, and Mindful Cooking How life on the farm fosters slow living, mindfulness, and creativity in the kitchen — inspiring both the chef and her team. 15:06 – 16:13 | Closing & Collaboration Invitation Renate invites brands to collaborate with Suitcase & Chardonnay to tell their stories across blog, podcast, and media. 17:01 – 18:46 | Culinary Roots in Holland Chef Michelle reflects on her time in Holland, exploring Cape Dutch culinary heritage and how it shaped her cooking style today. Vergenoegd Löw: Website: https://www.vergenoegd.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vergenoegd_low_wine_estate/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vergenoegd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUv_QFjTSBKdYT6haTfvASQ SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY: Blog: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

    23 min
See All (37)

About

A podcast that serves as an extension of the blog, Suitcase & Chardonnay, on which host, Renate Engelbrecht talks about all things life, food, wine, travel and fashion. Prepare for a 'theatre of the mind' experience as Engelbrecht dives into interesting lifestyle conversations with her specially selected guests. Whether it's a winemaker, a chef, a fashion designer or a travel guru, the aim is to share some of life's best experiences with you. So, get ready to journey with your host and her guests from wherever you are!

Information

  • Creator
    Renate Engelbrecht
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Renate Engelbrecht
  • Show Website
    SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY