Something about safari life makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne — bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive – Karen Blixen.
I think I sometimes sound like a stuck record, but gosh, a safari wedding is unlike anything in this world!
Katherine grew up vacationing with her family at Selati Game Reserve. She decided to make this full circle and say her vows surrounded by bushveld to the most remarkable person in her world.
For a bushveld wedding, an overcast day is exceptional. And just like these two unique humans, they fit right in. Sporting her Doc Martins and tulle explosion, Katie was driven to the ceremony in true Safari style in her Land Rover and walked down the aisle to the very moving song, Way Maker. Gosh, I had tears in my eyes.
Steyn’s dad officiated the ceremony for them; they exchanged vows, kissed and did the walk. It was glorious!
Over cake and Pimm’s, everyone had a chance to offer congrats, say hello, and then make their way to the reception tent.
In proper Lowveld fashion, toasty fires welcomed guests who settled into their seats for some special words, hugs and tender kindness. Dinner was a feast; I won’t forget those Hasselback roasted beets with lime salsa! Who knew? It was delicious! Thank you Jamie.
Does the idea of getting married in a setting of uninterrupted bushveld beauty appeal to you? Yes? Then a safari-type wedding is the one for you.
Although any time in the bushveld promises to be magical, certain months take preference. Here’s why:
Between March and May: In the pre-winter or winter, the veld is dry, and the deciduous trees turn brown and drop their leaves. Sights are picturesque as everything seems golden in colour – a perfect match for skin tones and beautiful photographs. Pleasant temperatures make for warm days, low humidity and virtually no rainfall accompanied by dipping night-time temperatures. You can easily spot the animals frequenting waterholes and rivers.
Between September and November: Temperatures are higher with a wet summer season. Birds come out to play, and baby animals are everywhere during spring.
The Right People to Plan and Create Your Day:
A wedding day is incomplete without the support of your loved ones and the vendor’s skill. Remember to carefully plan your vendors as access to some remote bushveld locations can be challenging. Some venues have these added services, so feel free to enquire about them.
I can also connect you with the right service providers that will make it much easier for you.
A mention and big thank you to Katherine and Steyn’s vendors for the following:
Venue: Selati Game Reserve | Caterer: Jamie | Wine: The Earth Beneath Our Feet Wine | Stylist & Florals: Torburnlea | Cake: Sowl Food | Table Runners: The Fabric House Cape Town | Handmade Glassware: Ngwenya Glass | Ceramic Bowls & Black Clay Cups: Antjie Newton | Napkins: Beagle and Basset | Raw Table Mats: Madwa Official | Cedar Wood Tables & Benches: Etienne Du Toit | Hiring Companies: Magic Function Hire, Umbali & Doug’s Hiring | Candles: Country Flowers | Stationary: Grace Architecture | Bride Dress: Sadie Bosworth | Groom’s Suit: Zara | Bridesmaids Dresses: Fiorinda De Rose Dressmaker Cape Town | Jeweller: Anna Rosholt