Our Story

Founded by Shavonne van Niekerk, and now joined by her daughter Meghann, Simple Soirées was born from a love of entertaining.  Having friends and family  around the table (the more the merrier) for healthy debates, shared stories and laughter is at the heart of the van Niekerk family.

Where did the disposable tablescape idea come from?  After yet another glass of red wine was spilt on a tablecloth (generally by the most entertaining guest…full of hilarious stories – told with lots of hand gestures) Shavonne, one to despise housework, thought there has to be an elegant, disposable alternative to spending hours trying to get out wine or curry stains.  With a background in fashion and marketing, when she couldn’t find a solution she created one.

From our studio in Johannesburg, we create luxury disposable tablescapes. Our signature paper-crafted tablecloths, runners, and serviettes look and feel like linen — so you can host beautifully, simply, and sustainably.

Our collection is locally designed and printed, blending European innovation with South African creativity. The result is an elegant, water-wise alternative to laundered linen — bringing style to your table without the angst of stain removal, and perfect for quick and easy set up and clean up.

But for us, beauty goes beyond the table. Through our partnership with Bethany Home, a Johannesburg safe haven for women and children affected by gender-based violence, we help create meaningful employment for women rebuilding their lives. Each Simple Soirées purchase supports dignity, independence, and new beginnings.

Our mission is to bring effortless elegance to every table, whilst honouring what matters most: time together, connection, and memories that become shared stories.

We’d love to be a part of your story.