“Based on a deep seated connection with the place and its people, Nylde and Nico decided to transform a family owned hotel into the perfect pastoral wedding venue with a chic African edge.”
The town of Whiteriver in Mpumalanga is known for its quaint coffee shops, delis, galleries and an array of local arts and craft. The region’s breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife too makes it one of the country’s top tourist destinations. Based on a deep seated connection with the place and its people, Nylde and Nico decided to transform a family owned hotel into the perfect pastoral wedding venue with a chic African edge. For the duration of the weekend, guests from near and far basked in the gloriously balmy weather, savouring golf outings and game drives in the nearby Kruger National Park. Behind the scenes, a closely knit crew of worker bees had started the intricate décor and lighting application several days before. Objets d’art were specially made and sourced by Nylde’s mother. The flowers, delivered freshly from Johannesburg’s market, were carefully arranged and styled by two close family friends. Not too dissimilar from the three musketeers, the DJ, the head chef and the photographer had travelled all the way from Cape Town to capture the hearts of a group that displayed remarkable levels and enthusiasm. In a Babette’s Feast kind of way, an end result beyond the imaginable was starting to take shape. It was a day that exceeded all expectations. Nylde looked simply entrancing in a dress unlike any we had ever seen. Nico proved that even the most laid back grooms do clean up quite well. Around large bonfires and with a backdrop of the sun setting over a magnificent lake, speeches commenced at the drinks reception. Later, the festivities continued around a mix of round, square and rectangular dining tables – all adorned with an engaging assortment of satin cloths, delicate lace overlays, antique books, framed photos, bric-a-brac figurines, ornate containers, silver cutlery, and lambent candle displays. It was an evening that boasted luxurious touches in an otherwise untouched setting. A tented dance floor area lured guests to where contemporary, crisp lounge elements and an irradiated bar created a vibrant contrast to the homely dining room interior. No one needed any encouragement – dancing continued long after Nico showcased his talents behind the turntables in a proud garb bearing the phrase I ♥ NY(lde). Cheesy? Given his rather arid sense of humour, not at all. Robust, yes, some might say. But remembered – undoubtedly so.
Where and when: Mpumalanga, May 2011
The Look: Objets d’art in a safari setting
Guest List: 220
Take Our Word: Pull together a team of family members, close friends and dedicated coordinators to recreate the ambiance of an intimate dinner at your own house.
Coordinator: Hannes Loubser
Photographer: Greg Lumley
