Today’s Real Wedding is a pure delight to see. Nicola and Wynand planned the wedding of their dreams in the bride’s hometown of Wellington, South Africa, and the results, photographed by Christine Meintjes, were both whimsical and nostalgic – not to mention, exquisite down to the last detail. Enjoy!
The goals: Nicola and Wynand were focused on having a festive and intimate wedding that was at its heart, a true celebration with an abundance of good food, good wine and good friends and family. The food was especially important to the couple, so they made sure to focus attention on the catering – putting together a feast of rich cheeses, freshly baked breads, fresh summer fruits, preserves and savory tarte tatins.
The look: Visually, Nicola wanted a look that was timeless and classic with a subtle French flair. Her wedding color palette of white and shades of gray was found in the flowers, in antique books bound in ribbon on the tables, and in accents of pewter lamps, vases and candelabras decorating the reception hall. The timeless feel of the day was even incorporated into the venue for the ceremony – a small, historic theatre, Goodnow Hall, that created an intimate air for the couple to say their vows.
The bride’s gown, an elegant off-the-shoulder dress by Elbeth Gillis, and the groom’s dapper suit by Trenery, were a perfect complement to the decor, and Nicola accessorized with an “old” vintage brooch, and a “borrowed” flower from her mother, attached to her chic birdcage veil.
The moments: Aside from seeing her husband-to-be at the end of the aisle as she entered the ceremony, Nicola says the most romantic moment of the day was their first dance. Guests lit sparklers around the couple as they swayed to “Strangers in the Night” by Frank Sinatra.
The details: This enchanting wedding, held on what the bride says was “a perfect wind-still hot summer day”, was stylish down to the last detail, and friends and family were a large part of making it all come together. The bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids, as well as the boutonnieres, were hand-crafted by the bride’s mother, and the cake, as well as special raspberry marshmallows, were made by a close friend. Even the bride got involved making wedding cake-shaped biscuits with fondant icing for the reception.
Nicola and Wynand greeted guests as they entered the reception, leaving themselves free to relax and enjoy the rest of their evening, celebrating this festive and joyful occasion.
The pros: All of the wedding professionals who helped to bring this wedding to life are listed in our Real Weddings Section. Check it out for more!
Thank you for sharing your wedding day with us Nicola and Wynand! It was incredible from beginning to end!
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