African Glamour

Emma & Ben

In a Nutshell

Where and when:

Franschhoek Winelands, February 2009

The Look:

An African dream re-imagined.

Guest List:

50 friends and family – mostly from the UK

Photographer:

Jean-Pierre Uys

Take Our Word:

Reinvent traditional elements by innovative grouping and styling. Opt for soft pastel colours and add sparkle in the form of illuminating lighting elements. Using square tables creates a visually appealing pattern of repetition whilst simultaneously making for self-contained social hubs around the reception area.

The Story:

Many couples who decide to wed in South Africa opt for a style that will pay homage to this country with its rich cultural heritage and spectacular natural beauty. Emma and Ben were set on maximising this opportunity whilst keeping their celebration in the class of its European counterparts.  Emma’s vision contained strong elements of classical romantic design – and yet she expressed a strong desire to ‘localise the look and feel’ by means of incorporating striking African elements across the realms of décor, food and entertainment.

The freshest local ingredients were sourced and presented with buoyant South African flair.  Drinks followed suit, and guests were treated to a variety of locally acclaimed beers, wines and spirits.  The décor on the day was an absolute delight with the Cape Protea combined with other species of ‘fynbos’, lilies, Lisianthus, and orchids to create carefully structured though soft spoken focal features. The combination of bright green and cut crystal glassware lent a spiced elegance to the dining tables.  Both ends of the reception space were framed by beautiful Gondola couches and ottomans in olive green velvet set against a sensual damask backdrop and large floral arrangements on high plinths. And this is what guests savoured for the rest of the evening… The most exotic that Africa has to offer in a very digestible serving.