Category

Venues

Category
In Venues

Alternative wedding venues for the eco-conscious

No Comments

If you’re living your best eco-friendly life, then a wedding venue that suits your lifestyle is a must. Although in South Africa it may be difficult to find a 100% self-sufficient, off the grid, carbon emission-free venue that also has a glam location, there are other options. Most of these options do require some flexibility, though. If you realistically want a sustainable wedding venue, you’re going to have to make it an outdoor affair.

A garden

If you or someone you know and love dearly has a gorgeous garden that can host a wedding, you’re sorted. Having a wedding in a garden gives you endless opportunities to create the setting of your dreams. Picture it: Strings and strings of solar powered fairy lights overhead, battery powered candles line the tables, in the distance, a bar serving guests drinks with paper straws, a solar-powered generator silently powering the entire event. There’s not a scrap of plastic in site and all your bins double into compost heaps. Even better? Have your wedding in the early afternoon so that you can take full advantage of all the warm and natural light. All is right with the world. Ps. we know the house which this garden belongs to may not be off the grid, but we forgive you. 

A forest

Yes this may seem a bit far fetched, but think of Bella and Edward’s wedding in Breaking Dawn, just without the werewolf-vampire drama. A wedding in a forest, surrounded by nature is an authentic way to celebrate your wedding. Everyone is so set on the popular trends but don’t you want to look back on your wedding day and be glad you went a different route? Add some authenticity to your day by opting for a wildly different venue. There are a number of forest wedding venues across South Africa, where you can say “I do” to the sweet sounds of song birds overhead. Some venues may include an indoor reception area so you can still have the best of both worlds.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

The forest knows of your love. It has heard your laughter, shared in your joy, felt your excitement and reveled in your love. It enjoys your moments together, just soaking it all in. It never forgets, only grows more lush and alive as love grows. The breathtaking nature scenes of Nikki and Sean’s love story captured by Art Photo. ° We love that our entire venue is surrounded by nature! ?? ° ° #overbergwedding #deuijlenes #oldbarnvenue #forestwedding #barnandforestwedding #nature #forestmagic #weddingstory #weddings2019 #realweddings #reallove #brideandgroom #weddinginspiration #beautifuldetails #foreverlove #weddingday #prettythings #awakenyoursoul #bestdaysofourlives #crazyadventures

A post shared by Forest & Barn Wedding Venue (@deuijlenes) on

A farm venue

Yes technically this is a four-walled structure but not everyone wants an outdoor wedding. With a farm wedding venue, you get to enjoy the great outdoors and the great indoors. A classic, rustic mix is ensured with this style of venue. You get all the creature comforts of a traditional venue, with some wild Mother Nature thrown into the mix. Either your ceremony or reception area will be open-air with the other under a structured roof. A big body of water, manicured lawns and rose gardens make up the perfect farm venue feel.

Image: Unsplash

 

by
Continue Reading
In Advice

How to have an outstanding outdoor wedding

No Comments

With the lockdown in full effect, it seems like everyone is dreaming of the day we may once again step outside and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Why spend another second inside when you don’t have to? Once things have returned to normal in the world, we predict outdoor weddings will see a big boom as couples and guests revel in the freedom of their movement.

While you’re stuck at home, there is no better time to plan your perfect day. Here are some tips to make your outdoor wedding a day to remember.

Location, location, location:

South Africans are blessed with beautiful scenery around every corner. It is especially important, now more than ever, to support local and choose a wedding venue in the country.

Our top pick is Monate Game Lodge. Located in Modimolle in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, Monate is a 4-star luxury bushveld accommodation and wedding venue where you can truly live out your African dream. Whether your wedding is big or small, the team at this 3000 hectare private game reserve will strive to add that personal touch and tailor each event to every unique pair.

Bridal couples can take their pick from the famous Rock Fig, a majestic Marula tree in a natural cave, the unique bush boma or the traditional Chapel to say ‘I do.’

Experience your dream come true in the gem of the bushveld. Monate Game Lodge is a venue where love falls in love again! For more info contact 014 718 7000 or [email protected]

Image: supplied

Light ‘em up:

Both functional and fashionable, good lighting is a major key for your big day. Since you’ll be outdoors, you’ll have natural light to brighten the day. However, as the sun sets you’ll need a few additions. Use varying candle sizes, hanging lamps and tons of fairy lights to create a romantic atmosphere that is perfectly suited for a wedding day.

Remember to take advantage of your space so that your décor complements instead of detracts from what you already have. String fairy lights around tree stumps, line steps with outdoor candles or create a sky full of stars by hanging glass orbs filled with tea lights from the ceiling.

Image: supplied

Get comfy:

If you’re planning a summer wedding, don’t forget to take the weather into account. There are tons of small ways to make the summer days a little more manageable. Let your guests stay calm, cool and collected with an ice-cream station or fabulous fan favours. If it gets a little chilly once the evening hits, have some blankets or shawls on hand to pass around.

If your wedding venue space allows, consider setting up a shaded cool-down lounge area for your guests to sit back, relax and take in the views. Conveniently place the bar nearby and the spot will be a hit, especially as the sun goes down.

Image: Pexels

Let’s play a game:

After being cooped up in the house for so long, your guests will be dying to have a little fun in the sun. Entertain them with some games designed to bring out their inner child. Think giant Jenga, ring toss, limbo or noughts and crosses.

Another bonus? Many of the items you’ll need for these games are easy DIY projects. You can get creative, fill up your time while in quarantine AND save money because you won’t have to outsource another service. Winner, winner.

Feature image: supplied

by
Continue Reading
In Planning

Beach wedding venues in South Africa

No Comments

Just because weddings have been put on pause due to the coronavirus pandemic, doesn’t mean you have to stop planning for the future. Keeping your eye out for the wedding venue of your dreams is important!

If you’re considering a seaside wedding, then you’re lucky that you live in South Africa. Our country is overflowing with magnificent beach wedding venues.

Here are some of out favourites:

Tintswalo Atlantic 

Within the Greater Table Mountain National Park, at the base of Chapman’s Peak, you’ll find Tintswalo Atlantic. You’ll have unmatchable views of the bay and the mountains on your special day. The lodge includes their luxurious suites in their wedding package too. This venue is best for an intimate wedding, as it seats about 25 guests.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4wga_Bjfc_/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcDBeqGjwiI/

The Oyster Box Hotel 

This Umhlanga wedding venue is truly like no other, offering you a a stunning backdrop which includes a lighthouse for your nuptials. The hotel overlooking the ocean offers a variety of venues to accomodate almost any size wedding.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvQnh_fArVZ/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwQqQHIhbLN/

Birkenhead House 

On the cliffs of Hermanus overlooking Walker Bay, lies Birkenhead House. The coastal setting is perfect for a beach wedding. The venue caters for weddings of up to 50 guests.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B37Ou7-BxCh/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BottMM7FRh3/

Strandkombuis 

For a more laidback beach wedding, head to Strandbombuis in Yzerfontein. You’ll have your reception on the deck only a few steps from the untouched beach. With a capacity of up to 200 guests, you can fit everyone in.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6yhPy_hBEf/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9hlVMtJzDr/

Twelve Apostles Hotel 

If a luxury seaside wedding is what you’re looking for, then the Twelve Apostles Hotel is where you need to be. Situated between the Twelve Apostles Mountain range, the setting is perfect for anyone looking for a dramatic backdrop. This hotel is suitable for a wide range of wedding options.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4t2sLZJ0hF/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6IWlacJMMz/

Blue Bay Lodge 

Undisturbed beaches, quiet surroundings and Saldanha Bay in the background. What could be more perfect? Blue Bay Lodge offers wedding co-ordination, seating for 150 guests, and a wooden deck at the end of a walkway on the beach where your ceremony can be performed.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvY1ocjhDF-/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3uinz4pONP/

Image: Unsplash

by
Continue Reading
In Venues

Beautiful bush wedding venues

No Comments

If you’ve ever wanted to get married in the bush, then you’re lucky to call Africa your home.  Say “I do” with a pair of elephants as your witnesses, or ask a giraffe for a post-ceremony selfie. Surrounded by nature and potentially some wild animals, here are a few wedding venue ideas for your bush wedding inspiration.

Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Essential Wedding (@essentialweddingpodcast) on

Khaya Ndlovu Manor House, Hoedspruit, Limpopo

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Khaya Ndlovu Manor House – an idyllic wedding venue in the heart of the Lowveld… . We offer a classy and sophisticated, yet rustic and wild venue for you to tie the knot just outside the bustling tourist town of Hoedspruit. . Our venue accommodates up to 70-80 guests comfortably, and part of the package comes with a 2 day lodge takeover, where you and your wedding party have exclusive use of the lodge. The lodge sleeps 22 guests in total, and we are conveniently situated close enough to town, where there are plenty of other accommodation offerings for your guests. The view from the main deck is simply breath-taking. . We offer inhouse catering and all related services. . We are running some fantastic specials for Autumn 2020… from our experience it is the perfect time of year to plan the wedding of your dreams with the back-drop of the Blyde and surrounded by the African bush. . Check out our website for details: ? khayandlovu.co.za . . ? @pageandholmes . #khayandlovu #khayandlovumanorhouse #hoedspruit #blyderivercanyon #panoramaroute #greaterkruger #limpopo #southafrica #destinationwedding #southafricawedding #weddingvenue #bushwedding #tietheknot #2020weddings #autumnweddings #discoversouthafrica #exploresouthafrica #getmarried #pinkbooksa #saweddings #hoedspruitwedding #safariwedding #getmarried #destinationsouthafrica

A post shared by Khaya Ndlovu Manor House (@khaya_ndlovu) on

Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Oudtshoorn, Western Cape

Kuthaba Bush Lodge Wedding Venue, Limpopo

Monate Game lodge, Limpopo

Lake Eland Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Samantha Larter (@sammylarter) on

Geelhoutkloof, Eastern Cape

 

View this post on Instagram

 

*Say yes to new adventures* #geelhoutkloof #cactus #patensiewedding

A post shared by Geelhoutkloof Venue, Patensie (@geelhoutkloof_venue) on

Having your wedding in the bush will be an experience unlike any other. No matter the time of year, the bush is guaranteed to bring you epic post-wedding photos and an extremely beautiful wedding venue. Guests who have never been to the bushveld will hold this special memory in their heart for a long time. There really is no place on earth like Africa’s wild terrain.

Image: Instagram

by
Continue Reading
In Advice

Have a destination wedding in your own country

No Comments

Romantic and exciting, destination weddings have been trending for many years. However, they also have tons of drawbacks. From all the possible legal complications and the fact that not all your guests can afford the pricey airplane ticket to a foreign destination, those opting to tie the knot in a different country will have to make sacrifices on their big day. Instead of limiting your dream wedding, why not go local?

From Parys to Potchefstroom, there are so many small towns in the country that give you that private, destination feel without breaking the bank. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a serene day only a few hours away.

One particular wedding venue we’ve been loving is the Nut Farm. Situated in Hartbeespoort, Skeerpoort, the Nut Farm offers spectacular mountain views worthy of your vows. Say your ‘I do’s’ at their open-air chapel with the serene farmland that paints an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding, or go traditional with their inside chapel situated on the second floor of the reception area. Guests will have a beautiful birds eye view of the bride as she makes her entrance, as well as stunning views of the famous Hartbeespoort Dam.

With a spacious reception area, mobile bar and hidden outside fireplaces, this wedding venue serves as a blank canvas for you to live out your vision. Their orchard accommodates intimate or larger celebrations of 200 guests.

Visit their website for more information.

Feature image: supplied

by
Continue Reading
In Advice

Monate: A return to nature

No Comments

Couples value experiences over material items. Gone are the days of over-the-top, grandiose weddings that are more about the pomp and flash than the couple. As we become more aware of our impact on the environment, couples are making responsible choices when tying the knot.

A wedding is about love and commitment. What better way to celebrate your love and the environment than in nature itself? One South African establishment, Monate Game Lodge, offers it all. Located in Modimolle in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, Monate is a 4-star luxury bushveld accommodation, conference and wedding venue where you can truly live out your African dream.

Monate allows couples to fall in love with each other and their surroundings, without the distraction of excess. Whether your wedding is big or small, the team at this 3000 hectare private game reserve will strive to add that personal touch, tailoring each event to every unique pair. Couples can say their ‘I do’s’ underneath their Rock Fig, a majestic Marula tree in a natural cave or in the unique bush boma. If you like traditional, the chapel is at your disposal too.

Credit: supplied

The main lodge offers 38 spacious and comfortable modern double rooms and two luxury villas. For extra privacy, the exclusive Shingwedzi and Skukuza Lodges offer a deluxe upgrade.

Credit: supplied
Credit: supplied

Naturally, a trip to a game reserve is not complete without a game drive! Unwind after your big day with a guided journey through the bushveld area, taking in the sights of buffalo, giraffe, hippopotamus, zebra, a large variety of antelope, and close to 50% of the bird species found in South Africa.

Credit: supplied

Experience a dream bushveld wedding come true at Monate Game Lodge. A venue where love falls in love again! For their wedding packages, contact 014 718 7000 or [email protected]

Also read: Now trending: Bushveld weddings

Image: supplied

by
Continue Reading
In Advice

Important questions to ask your wedding vendors

No Comments

Planning your big day can easily become overwhelming. With so many moving parts, it’s easy to forget certain things. Protect yourself against these unexpected problems by doing your research and fact-checking these important details with your wedding vendors.

– Their payment structure

The majority of vendors will require a deposit and then the remainder of the balance in instalments. Make sure you know exactly when certain amounts are due so that you can plan your finances ahead.

– What is included in the price

This goes without saying, but you need to be exact on what you’ll be receiving with each service. Some venues, for example, might not include cleaning in their fee which would then be an extra expense you have to cover.

– Whether they have liability insurance

Liability insurance protects a company’s assets and pays for obligations such as medical costs and damage to property, giving you peace of mind should something serious go wrong.

– If they have decor restrictions

Your vision of floral chandeliers and (eco-friendly) glitter sparkling all over might be unattainable if your wedding venue is strict with what decor is allowed on site.

– If they’re accessible for handicapped guests

It’s incredibly important to cater to your wedding guests, and if any of them require wheelchair ramps, railings or any other services, your wedding venue should ideally provide them for you.

If you may you pick your own vendors

Some wedding venues have approved lists of vendors that can be used, so it’s important to check if you can bring in your own.

– Their cancellation policy

If for any reason, you need to cancel this service, it’s best to know how far in advance you have to do it to get your money (or at least some of it) back.

– If they have on-site parking

This one’s a biggie. If your guests are travelling far in cars, they’re going to need somewhere to park.

– Their backup plan in the event of last-minute change

Rain, extra guests, food shortages…Accidents happen and it’s always best to have a backup plan. Ideally, your wedding vendor has a plan in place for this last-minute occurrences.

– Overtime fees

Sometimes the party is too good to end. In the event of going overtime, you don’t want to be surprised with an exorbitant bill from your wedding vendors. Make sure to check their rates before the big day so that you’re prepared come wedding day.

– Whether they cater to LGBTQI+ couples

Many vendors are quite traditional and do not offer their services to those who belong to the LGBTQI+ community. If this does not fall in line with your beliefs, it’s best to know before you agree to work with a specific wedding vendor.

– Ask for references!

It’s a great idea to check in with other couples who have worked with these vendors about their experiences to get a more realistic view of the service you can expect.

Also read: Hidden costs to consider when wedding planning

Feature image: Pexels

by
Continue Reading
In Venues

Strange places people have tied the knot

No Comments

Your wedding day should be exactly what you want it to be. Whether its artsy or “uptight”, if it makes you happy then that’s all that matters! Some couples really take this advice to heart, having their weddings in all sorts of strange locations.

There are always some unusual weddings happening somewhere in the world.  Here are some of our favourite strange places where people have tied the knot:

– Abandoned train station 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwsYcURFIa9/

On October 13, 2012 this couple got married at an abandoned train station in Michigan, USA. Robert Nixon and wife Myla, according to their Instagram page @deadsledbrand, are “a couple of hearse loving weirdos”.

It seems that the pair have a love for all things creepy, so their abandoned train station wedding must have been a mirror of their personalities.

– Whole Foods 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfzNzeID1oz/

Jacqueline Aronson and her husband, Ross had their wedding at Whole Foods, an American supermarket which caters to healthy eaters by selling products free of hydrogenated fats, artificial colours and flavours, and preservatives.

It’s possible that the reason behind their supermarket wedding can be found in their engagement story… the big question (‘will you marry me?’) was asked in the flower aisle of a Whole Foods.

– Taco Bell

https://www.instagram.com/p/BV73dhSAnRl/

Dan Ryckert and his bride, Bianca, said “I do” in a Taco Bell in Las Vegas. The Mexican food chain is very popular in the US and this couple is probably one of thousands of couples who dreamed of tying the knot with tacos to follow.

We hope their love is as spicy as the food they enjoy!

– Gas station 

https://www.instagram.com/p/7kgbfrQOlZ/

You’ve heard of public proposals, but we bet you’ve never seen a public wedding. There must have been tons of unknown onlookers, who perhaps hoped to fill their tanks, at these gas station nuptials.

A gas station wedding may not be for everyone, but these wedding-goers seem to be having a great time.

– The Apple Store 

https://www.instagram.com/p/s5NPoyny8-/

For some people, phones are very important in their lives. Your entire life is on that phone…right? This couple took their passion for their iPhones to the next level by getting hitched at an Apple Store. There is not much information about the couple online, despite their apparent love for technology.

Image: Instagram / Digital Spark Weddings 

by
Continue Reading
In Advice

Now trending: Bushveld weddings

No Comments

Tranquility, serenity, peace: three words that come to mind in the African bush. A place of wild nature and escapism, the bushveld makes for the perfect place to spend quality time with your loved ones.

Celebrate the beauty of nature by saying your ‘I do’s’ in the great outdoors. It’s the perfect ode to Africa. In South Africa we are spoilt for choice with stunning landscapes and exciting game reserves to meet our wildest dreams.

There are a host of dreamy bushveld wedding venues throughout the country, but one that stands above the rest is Monate Game Lodge. Nestled in the peaceful Limpopo Province, Monate Game Lodge is a 3000-hectare private game reserve that tailors every event to the couple. Here, you’ll receive a personalised experience that is both memorable and magical.

Say you ‘I do’s’ beneath their Rock Fig, under a majestic Marula tree, in a natural cave or a traditional chapel.

Monate Game Lodge is making it easier for couples to have their perfect day. Book your dream summer wedding at Monate Game Lodge during the month of December 2020 or January 2021 and receive complimentary venue hire! Enquire now: 014 718 7000 or [email protected].

 

Feature image: supplied

by
Continue Reading
In Destination

Get married for free in this luxury department store

No Comments

Take your love of shopping to new heights by literally getting married in a luxury London-based department store.

Luxury department store Fortnum & Mason is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. After its 313 years of business, they are now offering couples the chance to say their ‘I do’s’ in their store.

The exclusive offer is running for the month of February only in honour of Valentines Day. Couples can get married in their newly erected pop-up ‘Chapel of Love’ for free. The chapel instillation will feature the iconic Fortnum’s clock, illuminated stained-glass windows and a chiming wedding bell, as well as a neon pink ‘Chapel of Love’ sign.

The 14-metre installation will be on the lower ground floor of the department store, and is also a perfect place to propose.

“For us, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance – we want all of our customers to share in the joy-giving gifts and unforgettable experiences that Fortnum’s has become synonymous with,” explains Fortnum & Mason’s customer experience director Zia Zareem-Slade. “That’s why, this year, we are celebrating our friends, loved ones and everything in-between by launching The Chapel of Love.”

“We hope this will bring joy to all of our customers, no matter who they love this February.”

Those wanting to get married here will have to book ahead of time and will have to obtain a marriage licence and a registrar beforehand.

The chapel is also open to the public, so anyone may swing by and capture some cute images.

Feature image: Instagram / Fortnum & Mason

by
Continue Reading