Safari & Orchids Wedding at Garden Route Game Lodge by Nelis Engelbrecht {Luzanne & Jean}

Safari & Orchids Wedding at Garden Route Game Lodge by Nelis Engelbrecht {Luzanne & Jean}

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Today's wedding is such a happy mix of some of my favourite trends. There's a little bit of floral print (love those napkins) and pop of pink colour against a palette of neutrals in the flower choice (orchids, such an elegant bloom, and a personal choice for the bride). There's a touch of sparkle (amazing bridesmaids dresses alert!), and a whisper of lace (ditto for the wedding dress!). There's a bit of rustic, a hint of vintage, and of course a safari feel thanks to the Garden Route Game Lodge location. And even though it's an eclectic mixture in some ways, it totally works. Like the wedding equivalent of 'these are a few of my favourite things'. (That song's going to be in your head for the rest of the day now, SORRY.) The lovely Luzanne and her hubby Jean pulled off a fabulous weekend fete, and photographer Nelis Engelbrecht, was there to capture every perfect moment.

The Proposal The Venue The Flowers Most Memorable Moment
Proudly South African Details
On the Friday night, the majority of the guests stayed at the lodge and had a nice get together. It took the pressure off me meeting and greeting everyone on the wedding day. We had boma fires blazing, good music and real South African food was served, including Biltong soup! It was a beautiful evening in the bushveld. The next morning all the wedding guests went on a safari to view the "Big 5″ after a hearty breakfast. After the wedding ceremony, cocktails, beer, wine and sherry were served around the pool, while the guests were entertained by a marimba band and photo corner. Kebabs, samosas, various bruschettas and other snacks like popcorn, were available for the empty stomachs. We had a wonderful champagne 'welcome' with our guests greeting us in the reception hall of the restaurant. Our menu included Springbok shanks, stuffed chicken breasts and fillet steak. For dessert, there were options like Amarula cheesecake, Malva Pudding with custard and a white chocolate mousse served with berries. None of the guests had to travel too far, so we partied and danced till late. As a token of our appreciation for attending our wedding, the guests could help themselves to a box of chocolates at our late night chocolate buffet at the exit, as well as bottle of red wine with a customised label. My most memorable moment was the ceremony- it still gives me goosebumps. The bridesmaids entered while "A Thousand Years" played, and I followed, accompanied by the Wedding March. We wrote our own vows and also partook in the unity candle ritual. A mutual friend also performed a beautiful song for us, to bless our marriage.
Orchids - my mom's favourite. Orchids symbolise strength, natural beauty and endless love. This symbolism is a perfect description for our special relationship.
The day after our engagement we went to Garden Route Game Lodge, located just outside of Albertina. When we entered the gates, we both knew this was where we wanted to get married and we booked the first available exclusive use date. At the time, I was traveling frequently for work. The time we had available to spend together was limited, so we planned a weekend in Stilbaai for a for some peace and quiet, beautiful sea views and to each enjoy other's company. The big moment happened shortly after I posted a picture on Facebook of a spectacular sunset, two glasses of wine and a burning fire. My caption was: "a perfect evening." Then, my perfect evening exceeded perfection when Jean asked me to become his wife and to be by his side forever!

You can see more from this wedding on Nelis Engelbrecht's blog.

SERVICE PROVIDERS
Venue & catering: Garden Route Game Lodge | Photographer: Nelis Engelbrecht Photography | Videographer: Relite Photography | Décor: SRT Functions | Stationery: Carla Hugo from Grapevine Designs | Bride's dress: Ilse Roux Bridal | Hair & makeup: Wilna Allpass | Bridesmaids' dresses: YDE | Groom's attire: Woolworths

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