Jamala truly is a very special place. A lodge so luxurious that it only sleeps 10 people, it offers an intimate bush experience, where personal service and attention to detail are the cornerstones of every waking moment. The lodge successfully combines colonial style and African eccentricity in a delightful marriage of opposites. Set in the pristine 75 000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Jamala Madikwe is the ideal place for that ultimate safari experience – and now too, the ultimate luxury wedding experience!

Our team set out with the task to design a destination wedding where 80 guests – both local and international – would fall in love with Madikwe, and particular Jamala Royal Safari Lodge, for the same reasons Becky and Kevin had. With such a spectacular setting, the look and feel of the wedding had to follow suit. Already having printed their wedding invitations, Becky and Kevin had chosen the magnificent giraffe as the one design element they would look to carry through the day.

The ceremony took place in a clearing in the bush, about 2 hours before sunset – and the weather was spectacular! Guests arrived in open safari vehicles and were greeted to a clearing where 2 large, handmade white giraffes stood proudly as pole holders for the chuppah, and had been expertly covered in a mix of indigenous and exotic florals. With rangers standing on guard around the ceremony in case any wild animal decided it too wanted to witness the marriage, guests were able to look out onto a nearby watering hole surrounded by an exquisite expanse of lush landscape that was a kaleidoscope of green and yellow from recent rainfall.

After enjoying a pink and orange African sunset as well as a delicious “bread and spread” feast, guests were driven to Jamala, which had been transformed into a dazzling reception space. Two long tables, each seating 40 guests, created a striking layout from which our team designed a tablescape suitable for a Royal Safari Lodge. Lush bands of indigenous florals such as King Proteas, pink garden roses, pennygum and succulents in abundance filled the centre of each table and created the impression of flowers that simply never ended! Vintage safari lanterns and votive candles provided soft lighting on the tables, whilst an incredible cluster of antique chandeliers was suspended above the bridal table as an impressive focal feature. Not to be forgotten, charming miniature versions of the giraffes from the ceremony were added to the florals, and they also made a re-appearance on the seating plan in the form of laser cut tent cards. One giraffe from the ceremony was returned to the lodge and become the couple’s guest book for guests to sign and leave their personal messages on.

As the guests tucked into a sumptuous tailor made feast under an African sky littered with stars, many marveled at the sheer setting of this one of a kind celebration. And simply put, our teams mission was achieved. As like Becky and Kevin, Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge had left a lasting impression filled with only special memories and incredible moments for each and every single guest in attendance.

Images by Tyme Photography

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Close friends and family travelled from far to celebrate the couple’s marriage in Leigh’s native country as they had their civil ceremony in Switzerland, where the couple reside. Guests were welcomed with beautiful summer weather and the soft sounds of Mali and Me, an upbeat folk acoustic band with pretty harmonies from Knysna.

Sandrine’s love affair for all things vintage was the basis for the décor throughout the day. This was perfectly reflected through the rustic, wooden gazebo that was custom made for their ceremony, which was adorned with King Protea’s, greenery, and shades of pink. Following the ceremony was the traditional pre – drinks on the patio overlooking Hawksmoor House’s famous views with delicious Pimms cocktails. The couple wanted to bring in local influences throughout their menu and give their guests a genuine South African experience, so bowls of chunky biltong, Bobotie springrolls and fun “Ice Lollies” in watermelon and strawberry daiquiris were served throughout pre – drinks.

The reception was set up in the beautifully rustic ‘Blue Barn’ where our design team used handpicked vintage pieces, natural elements and personal touches. An array of handmade lamp shades were suspended above the tables and charming details such as antique cutlery wrapped together with twine and personalised name cards finished off the chic. A custom printed napkin with the menu and farm fresh biltong in a drawstring bag was placed at each setting as a memento to take home. Flowers in shades of pink and green mixed amongst succulents filled the tables and were further complimented with vintage teacups, glass domes and wooden accents.

The dancefloor was set outside under a canopy of pastel coloured Chinese lanterns. One of Cape Town’s best Dj’s supplied the entertainmaint whilst a surprise fire dancing performance was the highlight of the evening. For our team, this wedding showcased the unique level of attention that can go into every little detail from personalised wedding gifts, designer stationery and custom made menus!

 Images by Tyme Photography

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For the ceremony, our team created an incredible built-in 8-meter long aisle that extended from the stairs of the Palm Terrace to the raised platform over looking the Rose Garden. This aisle was custom-made and had an average height of 1 ½ meters.  Truly an aisle fit for Cinderella! Lined with a carpet of ombre cream and pink petals, the aisle finished with a beautifully adorned gazebo covered in pink roses and fragrant pennygum.

The bride, dressed in a wedding dress covered with gleaming pearls and Swarovski crystals, arrived in style in a white Rolls Royce, whilst Thabo, also looking very dapper in a white tuxedo jacket and bow tie, waited patiently for his brides arrival. The weather played along on the day as it looked like it would rain at any moment! But it served to create a dramatic backdrop to an emotional ceremony.

During pre-drinks, guests were entertained by local jazz trio Chilli ‘n Lime whilst they sipping on a selection of both French Champagne and South African Cap Classique. Before guests were able to enter the reception, Nombuso and Thabo were able to walk around the reception space, quietly taking in all the dazzling detailed touches our team had created for them. Each table was a masterpiece and no sparkling detail was spared. A variety of Perspex and mirror boxes filled with rose petals provided the perfect platform for a variety of striking arrangements on each table. Tall arrangements consisting of pink roses, tulips and orchids with pin-spotted to ensure that they were lit up at night, and bejeweled candelabra and vases reflected the candle light beautifully. Pink and purple intelligent lighting flooded the usually cream and white room to really enhance the colour scheme, and a gobo of the couples’ cupid from the invitations, moved across the dance floor throughout the evening. The bridal table sat proudly in front of an antique mirror installation and 2 exquisitely large rose and pennygym mass arrangements. Cut crystal charger plates and glassware added the right amount of sparkle to the table settings, and a customised diamante band around each napkin was the final glistening detail to each place setting.

The last 2 show stoppers for the evening was the 4-tier cake, which had cake tiers separated by 2 hanging crystal layers. And finally, the magnificent dessert station which filled an entire room was adorned with a variety of mini glass pots of Vanilla pod infused crème brûlée, lemon curd syllabub and shortbread biscuits, duo of dark and white chocolate mousse and mini Eaton mess pots filled with vanilla bean meringues and plump berries. Edible flowers and strawberries gave the final elegant detail.

The delighted Nombuso had this to say after the wedding, “Thank you so, so much! I really felt like a real-life Cinderella on the day and you made all my weddings dream a reality!”

Images by Ryan Graham

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The affluent area of Sandton, part of Johannesburg’s bustling business and commercial metro, would play host to the wedding at a venue large enough to accommodate a banquet style dinner reception, outdoor pre-dinner drinks, 3 stages and an after party to keep the prestigious guest list, which included African Royalty and dignitaries from all over the continent, glued to the dance floor.

The day began with the Catholic ceremony which was a traditional and sentimental service highlighted by the moving performance of the Grammy award winning Soweto Gospel Choir. Vibrant and beautifully designed African outfits representing many countries’ customs and traditions filled the church for this joyous occasion, whilst some of the world’s most incredible names in luxury vehicles waited patiently outside for their passengers. Names such as Maybach, Rolls Royce, Maserati and Bentley.

Kachi and Agbon’s vision was a sophisticated black tie affair. Black, white and gold were expertly paired to create a dramatic and opulent colour combination to out shine the impending Highveld winter weather. The lavish invitations highlighted an intricate “Great Gatsby/Art Nouveau” inspired laser cut design which continued to feature throughout the creative planning process. Two meter high screens at the reception received gold vinyl finishes in this motif. And not forgetting the 2.5 meter high and 8-tiered wedding cake, with alternating tiers of custom -made light boxes, also received this pattern on its edible layers.

The designer reception tables were an elegant display of lush florals, cut crystal and striking height. White floral arrangements en-masse beautifully down played the dramatic black and gold combination and the black and white striped table clothes created a dazzling colour base. Glistening gold base plates received a bejewelled black satin finish and striking 1.5 meter high white vases placed onto mirrored light boxes were individually pin spotted and finished off the chic as the ultimate wow-factor. However, Kachi’s exquisite Monique Lhuillier lace peplum wedding gown stole the show along with her laser cut Charlotte Olympia silver wedding heels! Kachi later changed into a 2nd custom-made dress to showcase the fantastic gold theme for the after-party.

Stirling musical performances by some of the best acclaimed Nigerian talent kept guests entertained throughout the evening. Kunle Ayo and his 5 piece band performed during pre-dinner and the reception, which included some fantastic traditional and contemporary Nigerian Jazz as well as some of the county’s well known gospel classics. Award-winning ChannelO VJ, DJ Waxxy took to the decks for the after party and kept the dance floor packed with his expert mix of international and African hip-hop, rap and R&B music.

Images by Ryan Graham: http://www.ryangrahamphotography.com/

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Anna had never visited South Africa but wholeheartedly trusted David when he suggested getting married in the Franschhoek Winelands at the exclusive Vrede en Lust Wine Estate. Having lived in Australia, Texas and now Singapore, Anna & David’s guest list of 85 would consist of guests from all over the world. This celebration had to be on par with international design and wedding trends, all whilst show-casing the best of what Franschhoek has to over: incredible cuisine and award winning wines!

The look and feel we settled on was to be elegant, modern, sophisticated and above all – stylish. During the months of planning, the emphasis grew on modern contrasts with a distinct return to opulence and a by-gone era of glamour. This would be highlighted with an abundance of flowers, masses of crystal chandeliers, variations of height on the tables, pure silver cutlery and cut crystal glassware. Customised dark wood reception tables were specially designed and made for this celebration. The contrast between the white and cream florals and the crystal table features was striking and we kept the look clean and modern by excluding table linen. Stationery was kept classic but did not disappoint in elegance. Each menu received gold foiling features with a delicate touch of water colouring to bring through a hint of pink. This was finished off with a real orchid flower for every single place setting. With Anna soon to become known as “Mrs Bird”, guests where shown to their seats by the means of petite lazar cut Swallows delicately placed onto the edge of each crystal wine glass with their names printed on the Swallows wings.

Entertainment highlights included amazing performances for the ceremony and pre-dinner drinks by acclaimed jazz group Breakfast Included; and a surprise to guests, a vibrant performance of traditional Zulu warriors right. A decadent sweet and candy station ended an expertly prepared 4 course menu which consisted of only the best locally sourced produce in the Franschhoek Valley. 80 beautifully handcrafted mini cakes substituted a traditional tiered wedding cake and large cheese boards and gourmet Polish-style hotdogs made for delicious late night snacks.

With the reception exuding a sense of old-world glamour, the dance floor and party space was kept slick and contemporary! A modern extension to the reception venue was added on by means of a Bedouin tent, which was then completely floored and completed with a hi-tech LED dance floor taking centre stage! An 8 piece band and DJ had a beautiful ABS stage built for them and brand new customised lounge furniture created stunning pockets which framed the dance floor. Intelligent lighting filled this space and the marquee to create the perfect party atmosphere for guests to literally feel like they were dancing the night away on stars.

To finish off a magnificent wedding weekend, Anna & David had a Trash the Dress shoot to really add a different look and feel to their memories in South Africa. The various locations at this particular farm really provide incredible backdrops for some beautiful photographs.

Photographs by Jean-Pierre Uys

The post Modern Contrasts Meet Old World Glitz & Glamour – Anna & David’s Real Life Wedding appeared first on Wedding Concepts.

For nature loving, fun and stylish couple Lindsay & Chris from Botswana, our team went on the wedding mission impossible: finding and transforming an untouched location in the African bush – raw, authentic with wildlife included – into an elegant marquee setting that had to simply be extraordinary. Lindsay & Chris’ single request for the look of their wedding was to create “A Wonderland in Africa”. It needed to be stylish, it needed to be sophisticated, but most importantly it needed the ultimate wow factor to transform the rustic bush setting.

The colour palette of gold, coffee and safari green originated with the exclusively handcrafted wedding invitations. A motif of two African elephants standing proudly on either side of a majestic baobab tree would become the couple’s personal “emblem” that would carry through various design elements of the celebration. Elephants – both real and customised – both made an appearance on the day!

African Bush settings are notorious for their warm weather, so when constructing a glamorous marquee in Victoria Falls it was important to keep guests enthralled and of course comfortable in the heat! So to give the sense of a lavish modern day “Out Of Africa”, our team opted for the ultimate grand dame of marquees: a lavishly draped structure with uninterrupted views of the great Zambezi River.

With lavish draping comes spectacular lighting! Trees were adorned with fairy lights to add a touch of romance and flood lights brought the Zambezi to life once the sun had set. No less than 14 crystal chandeliers adorned the inside of the marquee. 16 moving colour spot lights down the apex of the marquee and 50 LED lights all installed underneath the draping created the most incredible theatrical display of mood and colourful lighting impressions. Moments and decor elements were given a sense of impact as they were highlighted beautifully through soft glowing effects. And when the party really started and guests hit the dance floor, the vast marquee was washed in a rainbow of colour to amplify the festive mood.

The table settings were kept stylishly classic with arrangements of delicate cream and white roses, posies of fashionable Baby’s Breath and white carnations. The florals contrasted beautifully atop exclusive taupe linen, chic glass charger plates, crystal candlesticks and amber glassware. Customised Gold foiled menus and gold perspex table numbers added the final touch of style to the table setting.

The bridal table had a touch of modernity with ceramic floral pieces mixed amongst candles and real posies of roses and carnations. To honour our wild location, we created a “Trophy Wall” with a twist. Made from natural materials a striking feature of kudu, buffalo, springbok and sable sculptures adorned the Trophy Wall which created an awe-inspiring art piece behind the bridal table. Taking centre stage was a one of a kind elephant sculpture – created only for this bespoke celebration.

Guests indulged in an unforgettable Zambezi carte du jour of entertainment and fare! Colourful cocktails, imported French champagne and the best South African Cap Classiques were all served alongside an exquisite 5 course menu fit for Livingstone himself! Celebrated DJ’s and a live saxophonist kept guests festive throughout the day with a vibey combination of uplifting lounge tracks and later on – party starters for dancing!

However, as the sun eventually set over the Zambezi and on our dream wedding experience, we took a moment to take in every single designer detail that was flawlessly managed to come together beautifully, so as to deliver yet another magnificent flagship Wedding Concepts celebration – and this time, all on wild foreign soil.

Images by Ryan Graham

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