Careful thought went into planning the overall experience of the wedding, from the outdoor ceremony to creative takes on both catering and reception seating. The couple wanted it to be very relaxed and casual, while also elegant and intimate. They chose a palette of sophisticated neutrals; creams, whites, and greys, with pops of deep midnight blue. It was a celebration in every sense of the word, and one that their guests won’t soon forget!

The ceremony took place in Molenvliet’s magnificent gardens. Guests were welcomed to the estate, presented with personalised confetti cones, and served glasses of the delicious Molenvliet Brut Rosé MCC while they waited for the formalities to begin. We chose an all-white ceremony setting with white oval back chairs, a large 3m gazebo with white draping, white floral tiebacks, and a solid white floral band at the top to complete the display. The flowers were a fragrant mix of all-white roses, orchids and chrysanthemums that shone in the summer sun. And while the groom looked dapper in a navy suit and the bride stunned in a form-fitting white gown with intricate back detail, the real scene-stealers were Thulie and Matthew’s adorable children, Freyja and Ralph, who played flower girl and page boy, respectively.

After the vows, guests were led down the verdant drive to a cocktail area between the vines, which had been beautifully styled for the occasion. In keeping with the theme of this casual chic destination wedding, we set up furnishing under three draped cabanas, where guests could mix and mingle and enjoy the wonderful weather. We chose a mix of finely upholstered pieces in creams, neutrals, and whites, with some light greys to bring in the silver. No less than five food stations from the incredible Slippery Spoon catering team created a moving flow, so guests could roam, and pick and choose according to their tastes. The feast included fresh oysters, West Coast mussel pot, Asian tapas, and yakitori bar with fresh wagyu.

After a delightful afternoon sipping the best wines and cocktails and enjoying the food stations and lounge, guests made their way to the reception inside Molenvliet’s main hall. Instead of having either lounge pockets or traditional tables, Thulie and Matthew opted for a combination of both. Guests were encouraged to mix between the styled lounge furnishings and modern oak tables for a relaxed atmosphere, and there was no formal seating. We also kept the table décor relatively simple. Each was set with clear glassware and silver cutlery, with lots of dinner candles, votives and crystal candelabra nestled around lush white and cream flowers in low arrangements. Matching arrangements were also added to the coffee tables around the venue.

Another stand-out feature of this intimate casual chic destination wedding reception was the opulent crystal chandeliers that we suspended at different heights over some of the lounge pockets. We also had clusters of large mass floral arrangements amongst the tables and lounge areas, to keep the atmosphere cosy and create some stunning focal features. For the furnishings, we selected a combination of creams, neutrals, and greys, but introduced some deep midnight blues into the colour scheme here to add extra depth and romance for dinner.

Once again, the dinner created by Slippery Spoon was exceptional. It was an abundant Asian fusion feast, styled in the centre of the venue, where guests could help themselves. We also had waiter service available. Guests dined happily on Peking Duck, fresh West Coast fish, giant barbeque chicken skewers, and the best Cape Winelands cheese. Speeches were kept informal, and after everyone had filled their plates, Thulie and Matthew cut their semi-naked three-tier cake. They opened the dance floor with their first dance, after which the guests joined them. There they partied and danced the night away to the DJ’s mesmerising tunes.

Photographer: Wesley Vorster

The post Luxurious Casual Chic – Thulie & Matthew’s Cape Town Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

The weekend was packed with events, which began with a cocktail party at Zeitz MOCAA and ended with an elegant luncheon at Waterkloof (you can see more of these celebrations here). But it was the wedding day itself that was of course the highlight. It took place at Molenvliet, nestled on the banks of the breathtakingly beautiful Banghoek river valley, in the heart of the Cape winelands. The perfect venue to marry sleek modern design and sparkling opulence with natural flair.

The ceremony took place on the scenic top lawn. The bride, resplendent in her stunning Zuhair Murad gown and lace cape, processed up the flower-lined aisle to her beaming groom. A classic white arch decorated with pink, blush, and white garden roses entwined with greenery formed a beautiful backdrop for their vows. Afterwards, guests were treated to a sumptuous harvest table and summer cocktails, set around a beautifully styled, modern outdoor lounge. The groom had flown in an American band, fronted by Joey Dosick, for the occasion, and they performed through pre-drinks and dinner.

Dinner took place on Molenvliet’s terrace, which was decorated in soft shades of white, blush, sage, and taupe with silver and crystal accents. The florals were elegant and sophisticated, with just a touch of the bohemian. Lush garden flower centrepieces served as a refined counterpoint to bold hanging arrangements, which also included feathery pampas grass and dried tropical foliage. These were interspersed with glamorous crystal chandeliers, their light reflecting beautifully on the mirror-top tables to create a warm and whimsical ambience. On each of the tables, clear glassware accents were used for a clean, contemporary feel, while a mix of dinner chairs added extra dimension.

The party started with the first dance and continued until the very last song, interrupted only by the entrance of the cake – a decadent chef-commissioned mille-feuille. Afterwards, all one hundred and thirty guests danced the night away in a styled nightclub area, adorned with mirror balls, special lighting, and custom panels, stage and DJ booth.

Photographer: Hewitt Wright

The post Lavish Black Tie Wedding in the Vines – Maia & Wissam’s Destination Celebration appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

Extraordinarily elegant and hopelessly romantic, this unforgettable four-day fete was planned and styled to perfection, from the chic cocktail reception to the spirited South African braai, the windless Waterkloof lunch and the bedazzling black-tie wedding.

Upon arrival, all guests were handed a custom-made, hand-painted wedding booklet in a personalised welcome bag, providing them with a sense of place, preceding the parties.

Commencing at the continent’s take on the Tate Modern, guests were privy to a captivating cocktail reception and awestriking impression from the sixth floor of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art. Following an auspicious garden gathering with delectable canapés, guests were taken on a private tour of the nine-floor cathedral-like gallery. Celebrations continued late into the evening in a lustrous looking lounge, with a dedicated international DJ, flown in by the groom.

The second celebration took the form of a South African styled barbeque, held at Blaauwklippen’s brand new earthy-yet-elegant glass cathedral. Set in a charmingly romantic scene, the African-themed edifice was adorned in brightly coloured, indigenous, textured florals, framed by warm, glowy ceiling bulbs lining the glass roof. Choosing from a large harvest table feast, splayed in flavoursome barbequed food, guests were served zesty cocktails, amid a stylish, casual mix of tables and lounging. The groom – an avid music fan – specially flew in the UK based Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra to entertain their guests on the night, under the magical night sky.

The wedding itself – a sophisticated, Lebanese-style, black tie soiree, took place at Molenvliet. (You can read more about this celebration here.)

The couple’s, four-day fairytale ended perfectly with a private lunch at the breathtakingly beautiful Waterkloof Wine Estate, where they took some more time to let it all sink in.

Photographer: Hewitt Wright

The post Luxurious Multi Day Destination Celebration – Maia & Wissam’s Wedding Weekend appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

Multi-day South African celebrations

No more one-day affairs! Spending a lot more time interacting with one’s wedding guests means multi-day celebrations are on the rise. Enjoying a long weekend together with guests from near & far allows for the inclusion of many different venues and a buildup from relaxed get-togethers to more formal dinners. Think personalized excursions, informal lunches, special cocktail nights and post-wedding hangover BBQ’s.

Ultra-trendy floral overheads

Ceiling architecture and large creative suspensions mixed with over-sized chandeliers and lighting is certainly a trend here to stay. Hanging dramatic floral features above the table and or creating a dancefloor underneath clusters of flowers – is a showstopping wedding trend that will carry on in 2020 and beyond.

Luxury is personal

We are finding that the focus when wedding planning is less about flamboyant designs and much more about individual interpretations of the idea of luxury. It’s all about being highly personal! This can be found in the smallest creative touches like customized stationery designs or extend as far as a fully tailored multi-day wedding celebration.

Customization is key

Creating a bespoke and truly personalized celebration for the couple is at the heart of staying on-trend. Whether it is through a unique table layout, a signature cocktail, unique design concepts, stylish lounging in a special colour or flying in one’s favourite band – the sky is the limit and a custom-approach is key.

Colour trends: Vibrant & bold or moody & monochrome

On the design front, black & blue have made a strong comeback – as well as bold, vibrant colours. Contrasting darker & moody shades have replaced the more traditional soft and neutral palettes. Bold is beautiful!

Luxurious lounges – relaxing in style

Whether it’s for the cocktail hour or as part of the after-party – luxurious lounges are a “style must” at any modern wedding. The ongoing trend is to mix comfort with contemporary elegance – and styling relaxed & super-chic lounge pockets in or outdoors.

Bringing nature inside – luxurious greenery

Simultaneously greenery and massed natural foliage continue to be a strong favourite – keeping spaces luxurious yet simple and blending the indoor and outdoor. Gorgeous greens are often contrasted by impactful lighting and become ultra-luxurious when mixed with stylish custom lighting.

Intimate is in!

Smaller, more intimate destination-based celebrations are on the increase without letting go of extravagance, exclusive details and gorgeous, luxurious venues. Increasingly we are sourcing chic and highly exclusive private villas, exclusive wine estates or safari lodges for our clients – that are all front runner locations for smaller celebrations – with a true focus on the stylish intimacy they allow for a whole wedding weekend.

Sustainability & “giving back”

We are also seeing a rise in commitment to sustainability and a desire to “give back” – brands with meaningful backstories are received well. Gestures such as sourcing unique, local gifts for guests or commissioning artisanal art is a meaningful move towards to supporting local businesses or charities.

Dancing to the African beat of the drum

Incorporating African entertainment acts and soulful performances is an experience which connects every wedding guest to the beauty of Africa and a definite trend here to stay. African children’s choirs, fire throwers, drumming performances and Marimba bands are a guaranteed destination wedding highlight.

To connect with us for your own stylish South African celebration – our team is right here:
info@weddingconcepts.co.za | +27 21 4265783

Photography: Vivid Blue, Hewitt Wright, Zara Zoo, Wesley Vorster, Mathias Fast, Yolande Marx, Tyme, Dear Heart

The post OUR TOP 2020 WEDDING TRENDS: INSPIRATIONS & EN-VOGUE IDEAS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

With a magnificent wine estate as the backdrop, the dreamy colour palette for the day was shades of blush, gold, ivory and creamy white. Soft touches of blue were incorporated elegantly throughout the floral décor and gifts.

Personalization is a key design element for our team and this celebration was no exception! A logo of the couples initials was custom-made and carried through in gold foiling throughout their follow-on stationery – adding a luxurious designer detail. Not stopping the level of the detail there, laser-cut gold signage was made for the bar along with little “advice” coasters for guests to read; an oversized mirrored seating plan framed the entrance to the reception, gold-foiled menus added an elegant touch to each place setting and finally the dance floor was adorned with a large vinyl of the couple’s monogram in gold.

To add an element of surprise – the reception venue was completely draped off so that only once the candles were lit and the ambient lighting took full effect, it was revealed to the guests and the couple. It was a breathless summer evening and the glittering crystal chandeliers along with the abundance of candlelight created an inviting and dreamy ambience. The floral décor carried the colour scheme beautifully and soft touches of greenery added a romantic summer-garden feeling to the tables. Custom-made panels covered in a patterned fabric created the contemporary backdrop to the bridal table and corner arrangements of seemingly draped florals softened the look.

After a delicious and South African inspired menu, the couple opened the dance floor with their first dance and guests excitedly joined them to celebrate! As a final token of their gratitude towards their family and friends, the couple ensured they be would party the night away in comfort! The ladies received imported pashminas and comfy flip-flops, whilst the gents received stylish hip flasks. “Thank You” tags created the final piece of another beautifully personalised element from this magnificent family celebration.

Images by Wesley Vorster

The post Summer Garden Romance – Makaziwe & Sandile’s Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

Tucked away in the Helshoogte Valley, Molenvliet was the perfect choice of venue. As guests arrived they were met with incredible natural scenery and a luxurious ceremony gazebo. It was here the blush colour scheme was gently introduced. Trailing vines and soft white florals adorned the four-posted draped structure. Breaking away from tradition ever so slightly, the couple chose to cut their contemporary 6-tier white chocolate collared cake immediately after the ceremony. Once all the guests had received a glass of champagne, they took a gentle stroll down to pre-drinks, whilst the uplifting sounds of “Café Bossa Nova” played all over the estate.

It was at pre-drinks that the décor and design team created a ‘Vineyard Street Party’ for guests that allowed for maximum socialisation and enjoyment! The space was filled with modern and sophisticated lounging and cocktail furniture – all set underneath custom-made luxury cabanas. Midnight Blue, the next addition to the wedding colour palette, was introduced through various textiles and larger furniture pieces. Mass arrangements in large ginger jars added a soft and elegant design feel and a rustic gin bar served “His” and “Hers” cocktails whilst guests enjoyed delicious canapés and live marimba music.

For the reception, guests were ushered through a floral-draped entrance feature to the transformed terrace that was glamorously set for an al fresco dinner under the stars! Stone coloured draping provided a lush sense of warmth and intimacy and crystal chandeliers with soft trailing blooms created an elegant glow. Two decor concepts were carried across the reception dinner tables. Round oak tables had trees attached to them that were filled with beautiful blush and white floral features, whilst midnight blue tablecloths created stunning contrast and boldly highlighted the colour scheme of the wedding. Adorned with full arrangements, crystal votives, crystal stemware and gold cutlery, the dinner tables resembled that of a layered styled design. Beautiful customized stationery created the final designer touch.

The After Party space was transformed with “walls” of fairy lights creating cozy and intimate pockets for lounging; and Poplar trees brought the outdoors inside. The dessert station was adorned with white, gold and cream coloured desserts – including a DIY sundae bar. DJ Nigel Jaxx elevated the party once guests hit the dance floor after the first dance, and they partied the night away in this chic and stylish space.

Images by Vivid Blue Photography

The post Sophistication by Design – Marupeng and Ncedi’s Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

From the moment we met South African model and fashion icon Sarah & her entrepreneur fiancé Jehan; this couple oozed luxury and style. It was up to our creative team to translate their traditional African vision and their joining of two different cultures into an exciting modern celebration of love. With 200 guests attending this traditional wedding was truly the talk of the town for its unique modern Afro-chic twist – and a bride who stole the show in her two colourful African couture gowns.

Sarah set the scene with her stunning Swazi wedding dress by South African couturier Tuelo Nguyuza made exclusively for the occasion – perfectly complemented with locally made, bold neckpieces & accessories by the talented Pichulik. The fashionable bride then later changed into her second couture dress – an exquisite Gert-Johan Coetzee crimson floor length gown! 

The décor also brought together their two different African cultures with a perfect blend of Swazi & Zulu traditional elements.  Glass beads, vibrant colours and hand-woven baskets that were used as décor pieces and traditional vessels for the couple’s gifts. The Swaziland flag too was translated into the décor and as a bespoke prominent feature on the dance floor.

The dinner table tops were customised with a traditional African print running along the centre, together with uniquely styled wooden elements, King Proteas and soft florals.

Sarah & Jehan’s African wedding was a unique take on a traditional occasion, a perfect fusion of their two cultures, with no detail overlooked – once again a bespoke Wedding Concepts celebration in Johannesburg!

Photography by: Tyme Photography

The post Traditional African Wedding of the Year – Sarah & Jehan’s Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

We have seen this trend evolve over the years from the humble & simplistic wedding Gazebo to unique structures that have been handcrafted into works of art! Wedding arches have become vital components of your wedding décor – a first glimpse into the overall look & feel!

Whether your wedding is modern & minimalistic or extravagant & luxurious, ceremony arches create amazing ambiance and frame a moment between the bride & groom as vows are exchanged. From dramatic floral walls, romantic & dreamy gazebos, adored with draping & garden roses to a show stopper spherical gazebo structure completed with a suspended crystal chandelier! The key is to get creative!

Here are our top ceremony settings to make you swoon!

Images by: Zara Zoo, Wesley Vorster, Tyme Photography, Kikitopgraphy, Vivid Blue, Lad & Lass Photography, Jean Pierre Uys, Jani B, Du Wayne Photography

The post Our Favourite Show Stopper Ceremony Settings appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

Like fashion, designing a timeless wedding is very much about focusing on those basic principles. Simplicity, quality and good taste. For Benita and Efize, a stylish and glamorous young couple from Lagos, our Team’s design objective was to create a classic décor concept that at first glance, seems quite simple – but upon closer inspection, one then notices the luxurious quality and the high level of detail that went into every single design element to create a look that is not only effortlessly cohesive, but sophisticated and elegant in its arrangement so as to create an overall décor concept that will forever be timeless.

The floral colour palette, being a key component, was kept to only white and cream flowers with very subtle additions of soft pink blooms. With towering mass arrangements adorning the many dinner tables set amongst three magnificent crystal chandeliers and dozens of crystal candelabras, this colour palette created a very rounded, romantic and tasteful look that was brilliantly inspired, yet gentle. To add a touch of modern glamour, rose gold was introduced through subtle decorative yet functional elements. Rose gold foiled stationary and individually decorated wedding favours adding subtle colour to each place setting, whilst modern lighting features such a rose gold pendants and gold-based Edison bulbs added another layer of functional colour. The glorious 5-tiered white fondant wedding cake was expertly gilded with copper leaf and then dressed with trailing individual sugar roses.

The Wedding Concepts design signature for this particular celebration was the inspired floor plan that was centered on the couple and their custom-built mirror dinner table for two. Set on a separate stage and perfectly positioned just underneath the largest crystal chandelier in the room, the couple was literally surrounded by their closest family and friends. Personalised “Wifey” and “Hubby” stickers were a fun youthful design touch to the back of their Philippe Starck ghost chairs and contemporary mirror plinths covered with crystal candles fringed the couples table, whilst a solid band of soft florals with trailing orchids added the final layer of luxury to the dinner table.

Timeless simplicity in design, breathtakingly striking in delivery – Benita’s and Efize’s destination wedding will be remembered as another stunning Wedding Concepts signature celebration.

Photography by: Du Wayne Denton

The post The Art of Elegant & Timeless Style – Benita & Efize’s Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

The couple made it known to our coordination and design team that it was important to make this occasion as memorable and unique as possible – with this in mind we starting the design and planning process, ensuring that this wedding would not only exceed the couples expectations but also offer an exceptional experience for their global mix of friends and family members!

The private beach situated in close proximity to the house was the ideal location for their elegant ceremony.  As the guests made their way to the beach they were welcomed to a setting that would take anyone’s breathe away – perfectly aligned white ghost chairs leading up to the custom made gazebo which was beautifully adorned with lush draping, spectacular florals and a crystal chandelier suspended in the middle to complete the bespoke look.  

Afterwards the couple and the guests mingled and enjoyed champagne and oysters as they took in the picturesque surroundings. As a surprise performance – to both the guests and the bride – a local children’s choir and The Cape Minstrels burst out in chorus as they crossed over the dunes to join the guests.

As the sun began to set over Grotto Bay, all were welcomed into the family house that had been completely transformed into a designer celebration! The existing deck had been extended making space for a beautifully styled lounge area set in front of the impressive bar structure – all perfectly designed to match the overall white, gold and soft pastel colour scheme.  The strikingly glamorous floral-look tied this elegant chic together and for that extra touch of glamour – bespoke personalised stationery details at every setting complemented by designer Phoenix chairs!

The evening ended with everyone dancing the night away in the lounge area, that too had been converted into a dazzling ‘night club’ setting. With clusters of candles set around the periphery of the room, added crystal chandeliers and a personalised dance floor the scene was set for a uniquely memorable seaside celebration!

Photography by: Lad & Lass Photography

The post An elegant Destination wedding set on the shores of South Africa – Natalie & Carl’s Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.