This is the kind of event that reminds you that some of the best weddings really are just great big parties. Not that there wasn’t a traditional edge — a stunning jeweled gown from Casey Jeanne, dramatic flowers of greens and burgundy from The Wedding Company South Africa, and a beautiful outdoor ceremony all gave this forest wedding a modern, Instagram-worthy feel. But it was all about the people — hilarious speeches, a photo booth to create keepsakes, and a rustic venue perfect for dancing the night away. Check out the FULL GALLERY from The Shank Tank to see how a wedding really can just be about surrounding yourself with the people you love.
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The Love Story
How they Met: Bradley and I met at the University of Cape Town which we both attended. Brad is an identical twin, so I initially just greeting him by his last name – just in case 🙂
We had both been to watch South Africa play cricket and happened to walk out of the stadium side-by-side, and got to chatting properly for the first time. We were only acquaintances up to that point. I couldn't stop thinking about him after that.
The Proposal: Brad and I were n the Sunshine Coast of Australia as Brad was competing in the Half Ironman World Championship in Mooloolaba. Two days before the race, he drove us out to beautiful Noosa beach. We were taking a stroll along the rocky coastline before breakfast, and he asked me to marry him.
What was particularly special was the fact that we were 8 hours ahead of our friends and family back home, so we had time to really be in the moment, just the two of us before we let everyone else into our new little world a few hours later.
Wedding Fashion
I have no shame in saying that I have a girl-crush on Casey Jeanne, the designer, and maker of my wedding dress. I am quite a small person, and knew that anything I tried from the racks would have to be severely altered for it to fit me properly – or maybe that was just my excuse to make an appointment to consult with Casey on the dress. I shared my ideas and silhouette interests, and she worked her magic. It was one of my favorite parts of the process.
Bradley is a real guy's guy when it comes to clothing. He is a proper jeans and t-shirt kind of man who seldom gets his jollies from buying anything new to wear (unless it's for cycling, which case there is only mild enthusiasm). I was surprised when he came home and reported that he had found a tailor and had scheduled an appointment to have his wedding suit and shirt custom made! It was a great moment. He looked damn fine in it too.
My bridesmaids and I sourced their dresses in stores locally. The girls don't all live together, so logistically it made it very difficult to have their dresses made. We found perfect burgundy dresses and daring faux-fur giles for a little something extra.
VISIT THE VENDORS' WEBSITES
Photography: The Shank Tank | Venue: Crystal Barn | Event Planning: The Wedding Company South Africa | Floral: The Wedding Company South Africa | Videography: The Shank Tank | Hair: Nixon Makeup | Makeup: Nixon Makeup | Stationery: Blooming Wonderful | Jewelry: Kirsten Goss | Entertainment: KZN Wedding DJ | Wedding Dress: Casey Jeanne | Groom's Attire: DICKSON TAILORS | Bridesmaid Dresses: Forever New | Veil: Casey Jeanne | Submitted via: Matchology
SHOP THIS WEDDING LOOK
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