“Karen Matthews and Peter Hidden exchanged vows in a candlelit cellar on Hidden Valley Wine Estate in April of this year. ”
Karen Matthews and Peter Hidden exchanged vows in a candlelit cellar on Hidden Valley Wine Estate in April of this year. Close family and friends flew in from all over the country to share this special and intimate moment with them on the family estate. This spirited couple’s main wish for the day was to ensure that everyone was well fed, always had a glass of estate wine in their hand, but most importantly that their guests celebrated with as much enthusiasm as this crazy in love couple.
Pre-drinks was held on the lawns with panoramic views of the scenic Stellenbosch winelands and Table Mountain in the distance. Instead of light jazz, sparkling wine and delicate canapés, Karen and Peter decided on upbeat tunes with a funky Cuban flair, tasty mojitos and themed cocktails served alongside hearty Autumn canapés consisting of mini Beef & Guinness pies, Lamb burgers on sourdough rolls with tomato relish and of course, fish and chips.
The reception shortly followed in the estates award winning restaurant, Overture. Executive Chef Bertus Basson delivered a gastronomic masterpiece of a menu that covered 4 courses. Some highlights include the 2nd course which was homemade gnocchi with garden peas and pancetta, followed by the 3rd course of Crown roast and southern fried leg of pasture reared chicken, organic vegetables and pomme cocotte. A canopy of fairy lights provided soft lighting above the guest tables and colourful and playful Chinese lanterns were suspended above the customised dance floor. The décor incorporated elegant and vintage décor elements to create a chic yet classic atmosphere. The colour scheme was a combination of off-white and ivory tones to reflect a vintage backdrop with soft touches of colour in shades of lavender, sage green, muted blue-grey and dusty pink. A variety of seasonal flowers like chinks, cluster roses, tulips, pennygums and inka lilies highlighted the colour story beautifully.
To ensure they partied in comfort, ladies were presented with customised flip-flops and gents were treated to imported cigars to puff-on and celebrate in style. Once the dance floor was opened by the jovial couple, it was never empty from that moment onwards. Late night snacks of caramel popcorn, a variety of mini German sausages and mustards, cheese boards and biltong, helped to satisfy those midnight munchies. We can confidently say that Karen and Peter received their wedding wish: their guests truly celebrated with as much enthusiasm as their crazy in love selves.
Where and when: Hidden Valley, Stellenbosch, April 2011
The Look: A stylish celebration, incorporating elegant and vintage décor elements to create a chic yet classic atmosphere.
Guest List: 122 friends and family from around South Africa
Take our word:Never compromise on the fundamental elements of a celebration: an delicious menu, award winning wine, suitable entertainment and of course plenty of love….actually.
Credits:
Coordinator:Kate Rawbone