Manhattan Avenue
Sep 28, 2026
Hlubi Hewu: Delivering Joy, One Thoughtful Gift at a Time
In the quiet uncertainty of May 2020, while much of the world stood still, something beautiful began to bloom. For the founder of Planned Gifts, the Covid-19 lockdown was both a moment of pause and a moment of possibility. With her décor and picnic business halted by restrictions, she saw an opportunity to pivot - not just in business, but in purpose.
“I wanted to create something meaningful,” she recalls. “The pandemic was heartbreaking - families were separated, people were grieving. Planned Gifts became my way to reconnect loved ones with surprises that bridged the distance.”
From the modest beginnings of assembling orders in her bathroom and lounge, the idea quickly took root. Joy-filled deliveries, heartfelt thank-yous, and emotional reunions became the heartbeat of the brand. By 2022, the business had grown into its first brick-and-mortar store, and today, it thrives in a beautiful new space - proof of what can happen when resilience meets creativity.
This year marks Planned Gifts’ 5th anniversary, and the milestones have been plentiful: hiring the first employee, expanding the delivery fleet, and even winning the prestigious Woolworths Youth Makers competition. “That moment was huge for me,” she says with pride. “Woolworths has a remarkable legacy. Being recognized by them felt like a quiet voice saying, ‘You’re on the right path.’”
t the core of Planned Gifts lies a simple philosophy: the best gifts aren’t defined by price, but by thought. From meticulously packaged flowers to personalized touches that surprise and delight, every creation is designed to make someone pause, smile, and feel deeply seen. “It’s those moments - when someone is so stunned by their gift they hesitate to accept it—that I live for,” she says.
Her personal values shape every aspect of the brand. With an analytical mind and meticulous attention to detail, she ensures that every product is beautifully made, thoughtfully presented, and delivered with kindness. “Happy customers become storytellers,” she notes, “and that’s the most powerful marketing there is.”
Looking ahead, Planned Gifts is entering an exciting new chapter. A move to a larger space means streamlined operations and the ability to serve more customers. Collaborations with local businesses are on the horizon, alongside something especially close to her heart—entrepreneurship workshops for South Africa’s youth. “Youth unemployment is such a big challenge. If I can help others start their own gifting businesses, that’s impact that goes beyond my brand.” Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is refreshingly direct: “Start now. Don’t wait for the perfect plan. Mistakes are your best teachers, and keeping things fun helps you survive the tough days.” And while gifting is her business, she’s quick to share an underrated tip: men love flowers, too. “Pair a bouquet with sneakers or a special dinner - people love variety. It’s about creating an experience, not just handing over a single item.” Despite the polished luxury her brand exudes, her personal life is grounded. At home, she prefers a simple vase of roses to an elaborate display. Wellness, she says, is the key to sustaining her creativity and discipline. “If I’m grounded, I can run a business that cares—for people, for customers, for the environment.” At the heart of it all, her motivation is deeply personal. “This business is my answered prayer,” she says. “It’s my legacy for my children. I want them to grow up with something built from passion and love. That’s what keeps me showing up, even on the hard days.”
Five years in, Planned Gifts has evolved from a lockdown pivot into a thriving brand with a clear mission: to turn moments into memories, one thoughtful surprise at a time. And with its next chapter already unfolding, it’s clear this story is just getting started.
Read the story in the Print Issue