Written by: Katrien Pienaar
From wine and skincare to colourful café culture, this Local Love Stories feature celebrates Pretoria entrepreneurs whose partnerships are rooted in romance, friendship and the courage to build something meaningful together.
Behind some of Pretoria’s most-loved spaces are couples building businesses side by side. This month, we spotlight Pretoria businesses built by couples, sharing the stories of three local ventures where love, trust and shared vision shape every detail.
Vee & Forti Wine Bar & Liquor Emporium: A Slice of Italy in Pretoria
In May 2020, a chance meeting on the final episode of DeKat TV sparked a connection that soon blossomed into both a romance and a shared vision. United by their love for food, wine and travel, Veralda Mazzone (Vee) and Fortunato Mazzone (Forti) set out to create a space they themselves longed for: a romantic, welcoming place where quality, generosity and connection are at the heart of everything.
Rooted in Forti's Italian heritage, the concept is deeply personal. Growing up in Italy, Forti spent time as a toddler in his grandfather’s small-town shop - a place centred around good food, curated ingredients and community. Years later, that same spirit lives on at Vee & Forti. The couple returns to their little home in Italy every August, drawing continued inspiration from the way food is shared there: generously, thoughtfully and with heart.
Inside the shop, a warm and inviting atmosphere meets over 1100 carefully curated wines, rare ‘unicorn’ finds, fine artisan beers, handpicked spirits and gourmet deli items made with the finest ingredients. Here, true luxury lies in quality and generosity.
Vee & Forti Wine Bar & Liquor Emporium has become a natural meeting place, ideal for brunch, lunch, a relaxed afternoon glass of wine, or a perfect date night. It’s a favourite stop for couples heading to the Atterbury Theatre, friends meeting for pre- or post-show drinks, and locals looking for a safe space where people still meet and connect.
With its inviting atmosphere, comfortable seating and heartfelt hospitality, Vee & Forti reflects the couple behind it. Built as the kind of place they themselves wanted to spend time in, it captures their shared philosophy, resulting in a space where people come together, linger a little longer and leave with memories shaped by their passion for life, food and each other.
Website: www.veeandforti.com
Instagram: @veeandforti
Facebook: Vee and Forti Wine Bar & Liquor Emporium
Address: Lynnwood Bridge: c/o Lynnwood and, Daventry St, Lynnwood Glen, Pretoria
Ulu Café: A Taste of Bali in Pretoria
A trip to Bali sparked an idea that felt too good not to pursue. Four friends fell in love with the island’s laid-back rhythm, vibrant flavours and sun-soaked way of life, and returned inspired to recreate that feeling closer to home. The two couples - bound by friendship and love - decided to take the leap together and through their brave move, Ulu Café was born.
Founded by John-George Gittins and Lisa Gittins, alongside Joshua Evered-Hall and Nasia Evered-Hall, Ulu Café brings Bali-inspired flavours to Pretoria through colourful smoothie bowls, refreshing smoothies, great coffee and a menu designed for slow mornings and meaningful moments. Their shared passion and supportive partnerships are woven into every detail, creating a space that feels joyful and intentional.
With no formal background in the hospitality industry, the couples relied on instinct, creativity and trust in one another. Today, that leap of faith lives on in Ulu Café’s bright, nourishing bowls, layered with fresh fruit, bold colours and textures that feel as uplifting as they are delicious. The café’s easy-going atmosphere invites guests to pause and enjoy a moment of escape.
Located in Menlo Park, it’s become a much-loved local spot where love, friendship and brave ideas come together over coffee and beautifully crafted bowls.
Address: 69 Thomas Edison Street, Menlo Park
Instagram: @ulu_cafe_sa
Chris & Alley: A Love Story Rooted in Care
Chris & Alley was founded by husband-and-wife team, Aleycia and Christoff Jansen, whose shared passion for skincare, people and quality has grown alongside their family. As the parents of two little ones, their journey together is deeply rooted in care: care for each other, their family and the people they serve.
At Chris & Alley, everyday beauty is redefined through professional-grade skincare, thoughtfully curated experiences and exceptional service, both online and in-store. Behind the brand is a team of skilled skincare professionals who believe that no two skin journeys are the same and that trust and expert guidance make all the difference.
The brand is rooted in walking alongside clients on their skincare journeys. Through personalised consultations, honest advice and a genuine desire to help people feel confident in their own skin, the brand reflects the heart of the couple behind it: warm, attentive and deeply invested in creating meaningful connections.
Website: www.chrisandalley.co.za
Address: The Grove Mall, Shop L51
Instagram: @chrisandalley
Facebook: Chris&Alley
What these three Pretoria businesses - all built by couples - have in common, is a foundation of love, shared passion and a desire to create spaces that bring people together. Visiting them is more than just a stop. It’s a chance to experience the joy, connection and creativity that inspired their founders.
