Elegant + Modern Wedding in South Africa

Amy and Damian’s South Africa wedding is full of the most lovely florals and light, and we’re absolutely smitten. Designed and styled by Joelene of Oh Happy Day, the dusty pink and white palette perfectly showcased the Orchards Wedding Venue, a beautiful venue nestled in the rolling hills of the Caversham Valley. Adore Weddings created spectacular florals of blush and white blooms and greenery, including a suspended greenery ceiling arrangement, organic arm bouquet, gorgeous ceremony arch, and low and lush centerpieces that paired beautifully with silken runners, depression glass chargers, and taper candles. Each design element is thoughtfully curated and woven together to create an elegant and modern look that is also wonderfully relaxed and chic. Amy is resplendent in a sophisticated Casey Jeanne gown, and her maids donned flowing pink dresses from Chanelle Wright. Every moment is so romantic and beautiful that we could gush all day about how in love we are, but we’ll let the fantastic images from Bright Girl Photography tell the story instead!

Blush and White Bride BouquetOrchards Wedding Venue

Bridesmaids in Pink Chiffon Dresses

Bridal Veil and BouquetElegant Pink and Green Wedding Arch

Pink Flowy Bridesmaids DressesElegant Arm Bouquet for Bride

Greenery Wedding Arch

Orchards Wedding Venue South AfricaBride in Casey Jeanne

Pink and Navy Bridal Party

South Africa Wedding Oh Happy Day 2Casey Jeanne Wedding Dress

Blush and White Elegant Modern WeddingElegant Wedding Table with Taper Candles

Elegant Blush and White Wedding TableWhite and Blush Wedding in Modern Loft

Romantic and Elegant Greenery Wedding DecorDepression Glass Wedding China

Romantic Pink and White WeddingTaper Candle and Blush Silk Centerpiece

White and Blush Elegant Wedding in Loft

Greenery in Birdcages at WeddingUnfrosted Wedding Cake

What is your proposal story?
Damian surprised me with a trip to Grootbos. The whole trip and every element was a complete surprise. It was the most romantic and luxurious location. After sitting down to a delicious light lunch, we got whisked off in a shuttle. Turning the corner, we found a helicopter waiting for us. We went on our first helicopter flight together viewing the Hermanus greater area with stunning ocean views. On our return, we went back to our accommodation. Damian walked into the bedroom and called me in. As I walked in, he was down on one knee (rose petals scattered all over the floor and bed). He spoke about a few things but all I remember him saying was ‘Will you marry me?’. A few tears rolled down my cheek as I said yes. He slid the ring on my finger (my dream custom-designed, antique-inspired ring) and we popped a bottle of champagne. If all this was not enough, that night we shared a remarkable private dinner in a wine cellar. This was undoubtedly the second best day of my life.

What was your wedding vision?
We envisioned our wedding to be intimate and romantic. We followed a romantic theme throughout with dusty pink/gold/nude tones. We decided to focus on the fine and delicious details (gold cutlery, glass underplates, champagne bottles as personalised guest seating, lightbulbs hanging above the main table, quote posters, polaroid guest book…I could go on forever). We viewed a few venue options. When I saw The Orchards Wedding Venue, I knew that we had found the perfect fit. I grew up on a farm and it had that same homely feel. There were also the most beautiful dogs walking around (I love dogs) and I loved being able to have all venues (chapel, canape area and reception) at one location.

What was the most important to the two of you while planning? Was there anything that you chose to splurge on or skip?
Damian and I were both very relaxed regarding the whole wedding planning process (we were told that we were not normal on multiple occasions). The most important things to us were that our guests and ourselves had a fun and relaxing evening. We splurged on our food. Andrew Draper catered the plated meals which included a harvest table at the canape area, a starter, palate cleanser, two main options and an array of desserts. We skipped the traditional garter and bouquet throw. Our guests were having so much fun and we didn’t want to interrupt this because tradition was telling us to.

Do you have any advice for couples planning their weddings now?
I would recommend hiring a wedding planner/coordinator if your budget allows for it. They take away any stresses. Joe and I still chat to this day as we share many beautiful ideas. Find a venue that is a one-stop destination. Use a photographer and videographer. We almost didn’t use a videographer (we thought we would prefer looking back on photographs rather than a video) and I am so grateful now that we did. The video brings every element and the emotions of the day back to you. Enjoy every moment. We were engaged for about a year and a half and the time truly goes by so quickly.