• Give your guests a day they’ll never forget (and something to do while you have your photos done) with fun and creative outdoor wedding games perfect for a summer soiree! From jJengato karaoke, the list of fun activities is endless.

    By Taryn Wilson

    1. BRIDE & GROOM TRIVIA

    Let your guests put their knowledge to the test in an exciting game of bride and groom trivia with fun questions relating to your relationship.

    2. GIANT CHESS

    If you’re hosting your big day at a big outdoor venue, be sure to include this fun and competitive game for your guests to take part in. Use giant chess pieces, or simply paint big water containers black and white to fit the chess board theme.

    3. POKER

    Adding a few poker tables to your reception area is a great way to keep guests entertained, and can go along with a fun casino wedding theme.

    4. WORD SEARCH

    Set up a chalkboard word game with words relating to your big day and let guests use their skills to find them all.

    5. DRESS UP PHOTO BOOTH

    Go big with your photobooth and include boxes with dress-up goodies. You can even be funky and include a few Snapchat filter look-a-likes to get some great pics and loads of laughs.

    6. BOARD GAMES GALORE

    Stack up on all of your favourite boardgames and lay them outside on a table with some picnic blankets for fun activies that will remind your guests of fond childhood memories.

    7. KARAOKE

    This one’s always a winner! One way to get the party started at your reception is to set up a karaoke station and get everyone to take part in singing their favourite hits.

    8. PIN THE TIE ON THE GROOM

    Similar to pin the tail on the donkey, set up a picture of the man of the hour and get guests to attempt to pin on a tie while blindfolded. It’ll be loads of fun!

    9. LOTS OF LEGO

    If you have children at your wedding, setting up a play area with big lego pieces will keep them busy and entertained during your reception. It may even attract some adult guests too!

    10. A JENGA STATION

    You can’t go wrong with Jenga! This simple game is an easy way to let your guests have a great time. Set up a few Jenga games on some tables and let your guests do the rest.

    Image: Pinterest

    Set in the picturesque town of Port Alred and along the Sunshine Coast, the Royal St Andrews Hotel prides itself on its luxury service and beautiful facilities. With a range of options at your disposal, you’re spoiled for choice with what’s on offer at this magnificent venue.

    THE VENUE

    The venue hosts up to 160 guests, and couples can arrange to have both their ceremony and reception on site. With a state-of-the-art ballroom, incredible gardens and the exquisite beach backdrop, you’ll have everything you need and more for your dream day. Guests can enjoy canapés and cocktails in the modern and scenic courtyard whilst they await your arrival, before moving to the dining area with high ceilings and glass doors perfect for transforming the wedding reception area.

    THE FOOD

    Being part of the award-winning Manti Collection, the Royal St Andrews Hotel is renowned for its delicious cuisine, hospitality and a one-stop wedding weekend itinerary. The Thistle restaurant boasts a decadent menu and extensive wine list fit for catering to your big day.

    THE ROOMS

    The luxury rooms allow you to get settled in style before your wedding day, and also offer the perfect honeymoon escape. With ten elegant rooms in the Heritage section and another fifty stylish suites, there is more than enough space for your guests and bridal party.

    THE FACILITIES

    Be whisked away on a romantic Kowie River Cruise, or spend your time lounging at the on-site Camelot spa in the outdoor jacuzzi. The hotel also offers croquet, golf and beach horse rides, all suited to a full wedding weekend for you and your guests.

    For more information, visit www.royalstandrews.co.za.

    Sun? Check! Sand? Check! Sexy selfies? Check! When it comes to a beach holiday, Durban ticks all the boxes – year-round! And the stunning four-star Belaire Suites Hotel is situated conveniently along the golden coastline, offering views and entertainment no one can resist!

    THE VENUE

    Gracing Durban’s incredible coastline, Belaire Suites Hotel takes beachfront luxury to a whole new level with sea-facing rooms and a glamorously decorated interior suitable for couples seeking an escape amidst the hustle and bustle of the beachfront. Take in the glorious promenade view and breathtaking sunsets right from your bedroom window in this romantic atmosphere.

    THE ROOMS

    The hotel is comprised of 124 apartments, each containing a kitchenette with a microwave, kettle and fridge to suit everyone’s needs. You’ll be able to take in the stunning views of Durban’s coast while experiencing the luxury of Belaire’s modern set-up, with clean decor and a marble bathroom design. Guests can choose from studio, family, grand family and studio suite apartments or interleading rooms.

    ALSO READ: 30 Things To Do In Durban

    THE FOOD

    The popular Café Jiran is known for its out-of-this-world coffee and is the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast after a leisurely stroll along the beach or promenade. When it comes to late night dining, the cafe transforms into a glamorous scene offering a delicious fine dining menu for guests to indulge.

    OTHER ACTIVITIES

    Apart from spending time on Durban’s beautiful and warm beaches, the hotel is close to the Moses Mabhida Stadium, Suncoast Casino and uShaka Marine World. They also offer an array of activities that can be arranged for an exciting and fun stay. Think nature reserve tours, shark cage diving, spa retreats and more.

    For more information, visit belairesuites.co.za.

    Images: Belaire Suites Hotel/Facebook

    Surrounded by their nearest and dearest, Ané Bartleman and Marius Eksteen celebrated their special day on a sprawling estate in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

    THE VENUE

    We scoured the internet for a venue, which is where I stumbled across Bona Dea Private Estate. I lined up three venues for us to view around Cape Town in one day, but Bona Dea was our first and last stop. It is truly the most spectacular venue along the Whale Coast. With astonishing views, a lavish ballroom (as well as perfectly groomed gardens), we knew our guests would be entertained at all times.

    THE THEME

    We really wanted an elegant, exciting, fun and comfortable wedding. We all had a blast over a long weekend with wine tasting, great food and even some whale-watching! Our wedding day was even better than we imagined it would be.

    THE DRESS

    My dress was made by Casper Bosman of Casper Designer Wear in our hometown of Bloemfontein. I wanted something very simple, fitted and sophisticated. There were times I thought I should add something here or there, but your first instinct is always the best choice.

    THE DECOR

    We wanted decor that wouldn’t date, so went for a clean look and feel with shades of grey, silver and white. Bona Dea has a wide variety of decor options available for a perfectly tailored wedding. We loved everything from the tree branches and fairy lights dangling from the ceiling to the delicate flowers and gorgeous cake stand.

    THE FOOD

    For our entrée, we had a creamy wild mushroom and biltong soup. The main course was beef fillet on a bed of vegetables with pumpkin fritters – absolutely delicious! Our wedding cake was just perfect. I found a picture on Pinterest and we were so lucky to have Charlotte from Krummels Sugar Art make a red velvet cake, with cute cake toppers that looked like Marius and me.

    THE FIRST DANCE

    I’m a dance teacher, so this was crucial. Afrikaans music is great to dance to, so we opted for Juan Boucher’s ‘Gebore Om By Jou Te Wees’.

    LITTLE BLACK BOOK

    Co-ordination, decor & venue: Bona Dea Private
    Photography: Johan Koegelenberg Photography
    Flowers: The Flower Scene
    Cake: Krummels Sugar Art
    Catering: Two Chefs
    Audio-visuals & DJ: Event Music Solutions