An iconic hotel in leafy Jo’burg, the new Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff is a stylish urban resort offering wedding luxury to the utmost.
Elevated on a hillside with panoramic views across the Johannesburg Zoo and the prestigious neighbourhoods of The Parks, the Hotel is now available to book from 1 December 2014. In keeping with a modern African aesthetic, it’s reflective of the dynamic city that surrounds it and screams opulence in every nook and cranny.
With 117 guest rooms and suites scattered amid beautifully landscaped gardens, terraces and fountains, the mood is almost residential; a welcoming respite from the busyness of city life. Five all-new restaurants and lounges prepare to welcome you and your guests with an array of options to enjoy the finest cuisine, accompanied by the best wines of South Africa and the world.
Capturing the serenity of Johannesburg’s lush gardens and greenery, the nature-inspired Spa offers a casual atmosphere where you and your bridal party can relax in the sunshine before the wedding bell tolls.
Book your wedding date directly from their website HERE or visit fourseasons.com/johannesburg. Find it at 67 Jan Smuts Avenue, Johannesburg.
Photographs: Courtesy
Bigger, bolder and better! Dark tablecloths and walls are offset by white: silvery-white chairs, starched serviettes, pretty pearly-white chandeliers and different-sized crisp rosettes. Bring these two antithetical colours…
‘To me, the beauty of being a photographer is telling stories in the middle of life’s unplanned and spontaneous moments. It’s about a gentle touch, a belly laugh, a shared look, sheer joy and being there to capture it all,’ says Lindsay-Rae Michael of Dearheart Photos. Cape Town based, Lindsay has a passion for people, storytelling and being hopeless romantic herself is bound to capture your special day in its true, intimate essence.
How would you describe yourself and your work?
Dearheart is an extension of my creative side. It’s an opportunity for me to follow a love I have, to capture the love of others and to have as much fun as possible while doing it.
What do you think separates you from other wedding photographers?
There are so many great photographers in Cape Town alone, and I think it really is a matter of personal preference and who will relay your story best.
What do you shoot in? (film, digital/both?)
Digital
What keeps you inspired?
I always love looking at the work of other artists, not just wedding photographers but fashion, documentary photographers and even films and illustration. Above that, life is inspiring – a beautiful view, a heartfelt moment and a passionate kiss.
What do you enjoy about living and working in the Western Cape?
Cape Town is so varied in its landscape and beauty, I’m always amazed how a location two hours away can have a completely different feel to the last.
Where’s your dream place to shoot?
It’s a toss up between New York and Iceland. I love cityscapes and street buzz but the landscapes of Iceland are breathtaking.
A tip for couples who are looking for their perfect wedding photographer?
Look at a few weddings that the photographer has done, not just one, and get a feel for their style. Also, arrange to meet with the photographer/s. Make sure they are the kind of people you want with you on your wedding day. Besides your groom, they really are the person you spend the most time with, so make sure you like them.
What advice can you give couples for their wedding day?
Keep perspective, relax and enjoy! Remember what the main focus is – you’re getting married! So as long as your partner is there, everything is perfect. At the end of the day your life will be forever changed, and whether your flowers/hair/music was perfect or not won’t take away from that.
How has being a wedding photographer made you a stronger photographer over all?
Being a wedding photographer keeps you on your toes constantly, always looking for a beautiful moment to snap. It teaches you to be quick with your decision making, lighting ideas and how to communicate well with the people you are photographing.
How has witnessing so many weddings impacted your life/work?
I love witnessing two people at their happiest, enjoying the best day of their lives. Every time I finish shooting a wedding I cant wait to get home to my husband and tell him how much I flipping love him.
What are you looking forward to most right now?
Every wedding is exciting. I love meeting new couples and hearing their stories. I’m a sucker for romance.
Contact Lindsay on [email protected] or call 084 657 8938. To see more of her work visit dearheartphotos.com.
Photographs: Dearheart
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