Gentle Words Studio respects your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, store and protect personal information when you visit our website, contact us, create an account or place an order.
Last updated: 13 September 2026
Who we are
This website is operated by Madelaine Strydom trading as Gentle Words Studio in South Africa. Our website address is https://gentlewordsstudio.co.za. Privacy enquiries may be sent to madelaine@gentlewordsstudio.co.za.
Information we collect
We may collect your name, email address, telephone number, enquiry details, billing information, order history, account details and any information you choose to provide through our forms. The website may also collect technical information such as your IP address, browser type, device information, cookies and information needed for security and fraud prevention.
Orders and payments
WooCommerce is used to process orders and deliver digital products. Payments may be processed by PayFast or another payment provider shown at checkout. Gentle Words Studio does not receive or store your complete bank-card details; the payment provider processes those details under its own privacy and security terms.
How we use information
We use personal information to answer enquiries, arrange sessions, process payments and orders, provide downloads, manage customer accounts, communicate about purchases, maintain website security, meet legal and accounting duties, and improve our services. Marketing messages will only be sent where there is a lawful basis to do so, and you may unsubscribe or withdraw consent.
Information about children
Our products support children, but purchases, accounts and enquiries should be made by an adult. Please do not submit a child’s sensitive personal information through the general contact form. If information about a child is genuinely required for a service, it should be provided only by a parent or legal guardian and limited to what is necessary.
Sharing information
We may share only the information necessary with trusted service providers that help us host and operate the website, process payments, deliver orders, prevent spam, send authorised communications or provide professional support. We may also disclose information where required by law. We do not sell personal information.
Cookies and external services
The website uses essential cookies for functions such as the shopping cart, checkout, account login, security and site preferences. Embedded content or links from services such as Amazon, video platforms or social networks may allow those services to collect information under their own policies.
International processing
Some website and technology providers may process information outside South Africa. Where this occurs, we take reasonable steps to use reputable providers and appropriate safeguards consistent with applicable data-protection requirements.
How long we keep information
We keep order, payment and business records for the periods required by law and legitimate business needs. Enquiry and account information is retained only for as long as reasonably necessary for the purpose for which it was collected, security, dispute resolution or legal compliance.
Security
We use reasonable organisational and technical measures to protect personal information. No internet service can guarantee absolute security. If a security compromise affects personal information, we will respond in accordance with applicable law.
Your rights
Subject to applicable law, you may ask what personal information we hold about you, request correction or deletion, object to certain processing, or withdraw consent. Contact us at madelaine@gentlewordsstudio.co.za. You may also contact or lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa at inforegulator.org.za.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy when our services, legal duties or technology change. The current version and update date will be displayed on this page.