Werner had just moved in with his dad, and started working with my dad.
We went over to his house for dinner one night, I originally thought he was very rude as he hadn't said thank you when I had made coffee! LOL
So two girlfriends and alot of flirting and late night whatsapp chats, he had to take my dad for a drink to ask his permission to date me (being that he is 6/7 years older than me)
I remember being so nervous that my dad would say no.
Werner came in and said my dad said yes.
And here we are today :)
It was Christmas Eve 2015, we were having Christmas at my sister-in-laws house.
It's tradition to open presents at exactly midnight.
Everyone had opened their gifts and I sat there waiting for my gift from Werner.
He FINALLY pulls out a neatly wrapped, square box and my heart just started beating crazily.
I open it and lift the lid box- earrings. Beautiful silver earrings. I'm in the middle of saying "Oh my word! They're beautiful!" When Werner takes the box out of my hand and i look up to see him on his knees with another box in his hand. Glass by Riana Nel was playing in the background. He gave the most beautiful speech, which made me cry. And FINALLY asked me to marry him. I was so emotional I could only nod for a few seconds before I burst out a great, big YES!!
Some definite highlights of out wedding day are:
Seeing my dad's face when we did the first look, and the tears we shared together.
The memorable moments with my bridesmaids while we got ready.
Walking down the aisle and only seeing him, his jaw dropped.
Our vows - crying during mine, and Werner losing his place in the middle of his.
The special, intimate moments we had during our couple's photos.
Dancing our first dance as a married couple.
Finally knowing I am officially Mrs Koen
We went on honeymoon to Ramsgate in the South Coast
I wanted a more natural, simple look hair and make up look to compliment my stunning dress.
My dress was an A-line gown with a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves, a long train and intricate beading.
I opted for a half up, half down curl with a stunning hair pin.
I took a natural route with my make up with neutrals on the eyes and a deep red on the lips.
I wore a stunning silver necklace and earring set and the beautiful bracelet that Werner got me as a wedding gift.
My shoes with basic lace pumps from pick n pay clothing store.
I bought my lingerie from Just Undies in East Rand Mall - a gorgeous babydoll in white with lace over top half.
My mother in law made me a gorgeous nave blue garter.
We got married at the beautiful Four One and Only in Benoni.
We had immediate family and the grooms men spend the night in the guest house at Four One and Only.
Out of town guests stayed at guest houses and hotels nearby
I didn't wear any make up for a month before my wedding.
I also drank alot water to help clear up my skin.
My mom, maid of honour and myself hand made most of our decor.
We went for an elegant rustic look using burlap, lace and jars.
Our flowers were done by Bunches for Africa in Kempton Park
We found our bridesmaids dresses at the China Mall in Bruma.
They wore body fitted, navy blue, lace dresses with black heels
A close family friend
Tina and Inez from Stolen Moments Photography.
They were so amazing, they made us so comfortable and ensure we enjoyed the photography process.
Inez was even on the floor at one stage to get the best shot!
They were so open to our ideas and made sure we were happy with everything they did!
I planned the day myself with the help of my mother and bridesmaids
We did not have transportation as we both got ready at the venue
The food was prepared by Four One and Only.
Out cake was made by Beverley - a homebaker
We used a free online template site and adjusted our stationery ourselves until we got what we wanted
Our only dance lessons were us, alone in our lounge, practicing.
We had Jubel Beukes do both our sound and lighting in the reception.
Werner's cousin did the sound for the garden ceremony, as well as sang during the ceremony
