2020. What a year it has been.
Our day, memorable in itself, was the most exceptional day of our lives. Every aspect of it was perfect, a dream come true, and a real-life fairytale after all the mountains we had to move and hurdles we had to overcome during 2020.
The most important elements of the day revolved around having those we love, with us. Appreciating each memory and taking small breaks where we could reflect and enjoy each moment together while taking it all in.
My favorite moment of all, thinking I am calm and in control, but once I walked down the aisle, saw my soulmate waiting for me and his expression, I became overwhelmed with emotion and realized, this is the rest of our forever that begins today.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had a small bracket of opportunity but used it nevertheless.
Our destination of choice was based on our love for adventure and nature. We visited the Hoedspruit area of the Kruger National Park and Guernsey Private Game Reserve where one of the many highlights was staying at a treehouse lodge (Pezulu).
We wanted a country/natural wedding with a modern feel to it. A sense of elegance and warmth to truly bring emotion into all the planning we did.
My hair and make-up were done by Isjon and Johan immediately knew what would bring it all together when we discussed our theme. I wanted to be as natural to myself as I could on this day, still keeping in mind that we had to look at our photos a lifetime.
The wedding dress was loved and chosen the minute I put it on. Comfortable, beautiful, elegant, and captured what I dreamt about as a child (bought at Bride & Co Parkview). The shoes fit like a glove, plain and with a touch of simplicity (Bride& Co Parkview).
My jewelry was something borrowed. Precious to my mother, and worn on my big day. Her presence in my big day and life accounts for who I am today.
Our dream venue capturing our country feel with modern elegance was Oakfield Farm.
The majority of our guests did stay the night all over the area in close proximity being Krugersdorp/Muldersdrift area. The guesthouses, B&B's, and lodges in the area were impeccable and so accommodating.
I had all the plans in the world when we got engaged, but doing what I do, I barely stayed awake long enough to make the wedding arrangements and ensure our day stays on track.
We supported each other and with a rock-solid platform, I managed to ensure an increase in health and fitness(which I am now improving on post-wedding), focused on taking care of myself holistically - body, soul, and mind to truly make sure I am ready for what is to come.
I regularly rejuvenated at Bella Diva's Day Spa in Pretoria, jogged on my works' grounds before leaving to go home, and now and again visited the gym (now more than due to the pandemic). Trying to sustain healthy living with nutrition and adequate water intake.
Our Florist and decor specialist, Erna from Magnifique Floral Art, immediately knew what we were looking for when we had our first meeting. Her knowledge and ability to truly reflect us both in all the elements was evident.
Our decor brought together the country/natural feel with modern elegance. The use of Burgundy and red shade flowers & roses with proteas (our main flower of choice) and lots of greenery made up our bouquets and flower arrangements. Our furniture was white wooden tables with plain chairs and silver crockery, soft lighting and candles within the decor design to create an ambience of joy and love. Our main colours were burgundy, greenery and navy.
We have Frank Bespoke to thank for the extraordinary suit. The groomsmen had navy suit pants from Woolworths and plain Longsleeved white shirts of choice (with their sleeves rolled up), a burgundy bow tie and brown leather belt.
We made all the groomsmen and bridesmaids gifts by BayBee T.
The bridesmaid's dresses were chosen in two shades, burgundy, and dusty pink. Bride& Co Parkview assisted us with the dresses and alterations.
We were so blessed to be married by my Uncle, who married my parents 35 years ago.
Marius Kruger from Vidtography did our engagement shoot, wedding photos, and video. He is an absolute pleasure to work with. He makes everyone feel so comfortable although none of us enjoys being the centre of attention. His presence allows natural photos to take place with the setting being as is, easy, yet elegant and absolutely breathtaking. He made our day extra special as he captured all the unforgettable moments and managed to truly create an album that reflects the true emotion and journey of the day.
We hired a photobooth from Funky Photo Booth who did a tremendous job with the protection of all the guests and staff during the pandemic yet allowing us to capture our moments for a few hours.
Oakfield Farm truly performed the most incredible of all tasks by making our day come true despite all the challenges faced in 2020. Their extraordinary chef prepared all our meals and guests could not stop talking about the absolutely brilliantly prepared dishes.
Sweet Joy made our one-of-a-kind wedding cake.
The reception was truly an environment set in such a way to capture moments that are unforgettable. While balancing pandemic safety rules and regulations, we could still enjoy every last moment and have each important element we wanted to.
Our live music during the ceremony and canapes were provided by Strings on Fire and thereafter in the reception, Creamcheese Dj's took over. We couldn't stop dancing, the dancefloor was continuously enjoyed.
This acclaimed, multi award winning venue is where romance, beauty, old fashioned hospitality and excellence come together a mere 30 minutes from Sandton and Centurion.
