Eugene and I were introduced via Facebook through mutual friends at end of 2013. He needed a date for his best friend’s wedding, and then they suggested he ask me. At that time he was working offshore (Gulf of Mexico) so communication was very limited. But we later started chatting on WhatsApp, just getting to know each other.
Then mid Jan 2014 I was rushed to ICU after being in a very serious vehicle accident. So I had damage to my lungs, fractured my back, ribs, and tibia and crushed my ankle bones to the point where doctors almost wanted to amputate my foot.
Eugene's friends notified him at that stage and then he just kept checking Facebook updates from friends and families to see how I was doing. Once I was able to use my phone again I immediately sent him a message to let him know I was okay.
So then I was hospitalised for 5 weeks and the day I was discharged was the same day Eugene travelled back to SA.
We then met 2 days later after I settled in by my parents.
I was crazy nervous to meet him, seeing that I now was in braces and crutches (little bit of a terminator vibe) and with bad facial scaring.
But then each day, Eugene would come back to visit me, always trying to cheer up my day.
Before my accident Eugene and I actually planned to climb out Table Mountain as this was something that was on both our bucket lists.
And then with some delay, and thankful for a cable car, we eventually got around to go up to Table Mountain about a year and half later….and then Eugene went down on the knee and proposed on Table Mountain. Such a magical moment.
And today he still challenges me, whenever I say the words 'I can't ' He will then make it his personal mission to prove me wrong. #nevergiveup
The morning started out bit windy and cloudy, which caused a bit of worry seeing that we were set to have a outdoor ceremony, but by 15h00 that afternoon, the wind was completely still.
There were so many highlights from the most beautiful speeches, to crazy dancefloor games and sparklers at night, but all together just super blessed to have been able to share our special day with our loved ones.
Everything just turned out to be our perfect fairy tale wedding.
Eugene & Renske - Groenrivier from Light Lounge Wedding Films on Vimeo.
We decided to go along the Garden Route for our Honeymoon. (Was my first time exploring the Garden Route) We spent a night at Wilderness Hotel and then the next day were off to Knysna. We stayed at the most amazing Forest Valley Cottages. Surrounded by forest, with the most beautiful view, this was such a picture perfect setting.
For my wedding look I wanted to go for something that is elegant.
I had a low messy bun vibe for my hair, done by the very talented Skoonlief. I bought rose gold a hair accessory from Lovisa to round off the look.
And because I looove makeup, I did not mind having a bit of a dark eye, kept the lips light pink. My makeup was done by a very talented Makeup Artist and friend, Anette Olwagen.
Because my vehicle accident, I was quite limited to dress styles. I have always loved a low back cut dress, but again due to scarring I was a bit limited. I needed I dress that is light, slim fit and not too long. As I have trouble with balance and walking, this was one very important element. Although my dress had a long drape, we were easily able to tie this up at the reception. Which meant I was able to walk and dance with total comfort.
My shoes was also a very important element for me, and what a struggle this was to find nice nude wedge shoes that is not too high.
Due to my ankle joints being fused, I am not able to wear a high heel shoe. Wedges are the more comfortable option. I eventually found a shoe the week of the wedding at Edgars.
I got some really beautiful lingerie from Cotton On. They have a whole bridal range.
I was going to wear pearl earrings which I bought from Serendipity, and then Hubby surprised me the week before the wedding with actual pearl earrings.
Our Ceremony and Reception was at the lovely Groen Rivier in Riebeeck Kasteel.
We had the Ceremony outside and then had some Lawn Games to entertain guests after the ceremony which I hired from Beanstalk Functions.
We stayed in the venue accommodation bridal suite and then rented the rooms of the Venue Guest House.
The rest of the guest all stayed over in town.
Regular Chamomile tea, eye cream, gellish nails, exercising, and going for some sunbed sessions.
We liked the feature of wood and lots of greenery and a touch of gold.
We did not have that much decor, so our flowers and greenery was everything. We used Vindec Weddings for our flowers and decor who did an outstanding job.
We rented some outdoor pallet furniture from the venue, and the wooden tables for the reception. We had no table cloths, instead greenery draped over the table with some coral and pink flowers.
My bridal party assisted me with collecting plenty of wine corks which we cut and dipped into rose gold glitter to use as guest name tags.
We had a mixture of naked bulbs and curtain fairy lights.
My Groom had a suit made at Tidy Tucs Tailor in Cape Gate Shopping Centre.
The groomsmen all wore trousers from Edgards Stone Harbour range in a matt navy colour. Along with white shirts and brown shoes.
Each groomsmen had a wooden tie from Brow Tie.
The bridesmaid all wore long infinity dresses. In dusty pink and watermelon shades.
Each was able to wear their dress in a style comfortable to them. The dresses were matched with nude wedge shoes.
Ds Willie Greef from NG Akkerdyk Vredenburg
Our wedding photographer was Debbie Lourens whom took amazing photos. We absolutely love her photography style.
Her bubbly personality just puts you right at ease.
Our special day was filmed by Light Lounge Production/ Light Lounge Wedding Cinematography.
They got the most beautiful footage and special moments. Very professional team with great attention to detail.
https://vimeo.com/219180894
We used Mesmerising Photo Booth services which added great fun & entertainment for the guests.
We planned everything and then booked a DIY On the Day Coordinating Package with Carmen from Two Cherries Events.
This helped so much to have someone on the day to take charge of the arrangements. Would definitely recommend this to all brides.
We hired a cream 1934 Ford.
The owner completely restored the Ford to absolute mint condition.
We used Malita Joubert Catering. Their food was AMAZING! There was plenty of food for all and so tasteful, we still have guests talking about it.
Our wedding cake was made by a friend, Tanya van Zyl. She made the prettiest and delicious 3 tier naked carrot cake. I was completely blown away by how huge and pretty our wedding cake was.
I used AMS Designs for designing all my wedding stationary. Such a creative lady.
We then used PrintQ for printing and cutting services.
We did not take any dance lessons, but always took any opportunity at Braai's and other weddings to dance together. Luckily we both love dancing.
We made use of DJ Dean's services for sound and lighting and he did a phenomenal job reading the crowd.
A wonderful country venue set in the heart of one of Cape's most beautiful valleys.
