An Intimate Celebration with a Big Heart

“Guests took their seats for the ceremony where a striking gazebo, adorned with silver birch branches, framed the picture perfect view onto the surrounding mountains and lush estate orchards nearby.”

“Guests took their seats for the ceremony where a striking gazebo, adorned with silver birch branches, framed the picture perfect view onto the surrounding mountains and lush estate orchards nearby.”

When Stephanie and Richard – lovebirds since the end of their university days – got engaged in Franschhoek in February 2009, little did they know that they would be tying the knot just about a year later at the quaint La Petite Dauphine on the outskirts of town.

A super relaxed couple, they entrusted Wedding Concepts with the task of crafting an intimate celebration for 30 of their nearest friends and family.  The brief was to the point; we were to find a private location that would stand out as a prime of example of the valley’s abundant natural splendor, arrange the best local country cuisine and wines, pay special attention to a delicately beautiful yet simple set-up, and order some of the Cape’s best summer weather.  The heart and soul of the jamboree, they maintained from the offset, would be brought by their guests.  And rightly so.  There were smiles all around and hardly a quiet moment as guests took their seats for the ceremony where a striking gazebo, adorned with silver birch branches, framed the picture perfect view onto the surrounding mountains and lush estate orchards.

An early dinner followed al fresco style under the massive Oak Trees outside Café Bon Bon.  Around one long table where the crystal ware and silver shimmered in the late afternoon sun, the group was treated to mouth watering South African delicacies served in an uncomplicated fashion.  Speeches occurred in between courses and on more than one occasion resonated audibly when guests responded spontaneously.  At dusk, the interplay between the lanterns, candles and whimsical floral elements in soft pastel hues created a fairy tale like atmosphere and a glow one can only describe as magical.  On the perimeter, open fires and daybeds underneath colourful hearts swaying gently in the breeze offered cozy breakaway spots for those who wanted to take in these special moments away from it all.

Once the sun had set, it was time for the party to start.  The floor was opened by an energetic Marimba band that had everyone dancing under the starry sky.  Dessert canapés and a round of liqueur were served before Stephanie and Richard proceeded to cut the cake.  But first, there was another surprise…  Stephanie’s father, an acclaimed musician in the UK, played a song specially dedicated to the newly weds on the grand piano next to the dance floor.  Emotions ran high – but so did the spirits – and shoes were kick off promptly as DJ Preston started to break it down.  The festivities continued for a good couple of hours and by the end of the night it was clear that this wouldn’t be the last time the Pearce and Hamilton families returned to Franschhoek to celebrate life, love, and each other.

Photographer: Jean-Pierre Uys

Coordinator: Hannes Loubser

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