Ballito Umhl - NOV 2020

where both her sons, Justin and Shane were born.
One of the biggest drawcards at The Place, as with any venue, is the incredible
food on offer. Although she works closely with a number of top North Coast
caterers for events, Michelle also has a background in food and catering and
loves whipping up fresh scones or crepes for those just stopping by for a cup of
tea or coffee.
“My interest in food started while we were in the Cape, with the help of the Food
Network on TV and plenty of reading and experimenting. I started an Asian Deli,
ZoMoZ Pantry&Taste, which stocked all the items needed to make sushi and I
even hosted sushi classes, private dining and wine-tastings in our cottage in the
garden.”
When the family moved to a family farm in Malelane in Mpumalanga in 2000,
Michelle says oranges, grapefruit, paw paws, bananas, litchis and mangoes were
in endless supply! She also worked at Leopard Creek Country Club for five years.
When they made their final move to Ballito, they settled in Dunkirk Estate, where
they still live. The Place is a culmination of Michelle’s experience and passion for
hosting events and her love for the North Coast.
“Over the years, The Place has hosted product launches, business meetings and
all sorts of celebrations from surprise engagements to bridal and baby showers
and birthday parties. It is perfect for anything from 16 to 50 guests but, with a
marquee option over the lawn, we can host up to 80 people.”
The beauty of this venue, Michelle says, lies in how easily it lends itself to almost
any type of event. “Everyone’s function requirements are different. It can be
as simple as just using the space and adding a few fresh flowers amidst the
greenery to completely decorating to achieve your theme. We are open to
collaborations and invite people to bring their ideas to The Place.”
Good food is key to any event and Michelle has a number of catering options
available, including catering yourself and simply using their cutlery, crockery and
glassware – depending on numbers. From an intimate tea party, canapés and
bubbly or a three-course meal or seasonal table, well-known caterers like Olive
Twist, The Delish Sisters, Food Matters, Rocket Catering and ZoMoZ Pantry&Taste
all have menus available to suit any client.
You don’t have to be hosting an event to visit The Place. Since post-lockdown,
The Place is now open from 9am to 4pm, Tuesday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm
on Saturdays. They offer cappuccinos, a selection of teas, cream scones, cheese
melts and crepes in the most magnificent, quiet setting with free WiFi. Definitely
a hidden gem for anyone looking for a peaceful spot to get some work done
away from home or the office.
They have also started hosting ‘order and collect’ markets, which evolved during
lockdown, on Saturdays between 10am and 12. Follow them on social media to
find out more.
Details: The Place, Claremont Farm, Sheffield Beach Road, Umhlali, www.theplacekzn.
co.za, FB and IG: ThePlaceKZN, theplacekzn@icloud.com, 083 775 8537
Ros Ivey from Olive Twist
is just one of the many top
caterers available at The Place
The Place really is the ideal
spot for a business meeting,
conference or intimate event
November 2020 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 43