Have I ever mentioned that I love proteas? Yep, I know, about a hundred times. But I bloody LOVE proteas. Set against a crisp white background and filled with the most gorgeous Kings and Blushing Brides, this contemporary classic wedding captured by As Sweet As Images has SBB written all over it. From the glasshouse ceremony at dream venue White Light, to the beautiful reception filled with blooms, to the actual blushing bride in her lace illusion neckline gown, smiling at her new husband, Ash & Andrew’s big day is the kind of celebration that hits my wedding sweet spot and has me oohing over every frame, not to mention falling in love with South Africa’s favourite flowers all over again.
Love Story
I’m from Cape Town and he is from Pretoria. We did our articles at the same company in Johannesburg and met through mutual friends at a social event.
The Proposal
Pilanesberg is our special place where we go to get away, just the two of us, as often as we can. Andrew had planned to propose in December but the ring wasn’t ready in time for our holiday. So when I suggested a trip to Pilanesberg in February, he casually and happily agreed, and let me run with the planning for our two night camping getaway. He was so relaxed the whole weekend and I didn’t suspect a thing (only in hindsight were there a few clues). On our Saturday sunset game drive, he drove me up to our favorite viewpoint, which we had all to ourselves, and he proposed on one knee at sunset. It was the most magical moment, and he had some ice cold champagne ready to celebrate. Afterwards, as we were close to getting back to the campsite, he instead made a turn into a five-star luxury lodge, where he had booked us a room and private dinner on our deck. It was the most special weekend!
The Venue
We wanted a country or bush wedding, somewhere that felt outdoors and out of the city. But we also wanted it in or around Jozi for ease of planning in only eight months. We went to look at White Light, which was a very new venue, and knew immediately that that was where we were going to get married. It exceeded all our requirements. Additionally, being so close to Lanseria airport, it was so easy for our family and friends to travel without having to go into Jozi city if they didn’t want to. Guests stayed in nearby lodges, making it a great weekend together. The venue was perfect for us and with the help of our co-ordinator and amazing staff, our dream day came to life.
Wedding Style
White Light is such a beautiful, clean, white blank canvas with natural surroundings and amazing light. We wanted to work with the light and decided on soft pinks and greens to bring the room to life, with asymmetrical, unmanicured floral arrangements.
Wedding Details
It was so special to be married on our six year dating anniversary which fell on a perfect Saturday in October. Perhaps our favorite detail was our Save the Dates which we designed as laser cut wooden fridge magnets. Rock roses (succulents) were used in the boutonnieres and flower arrangements, which were homegrown with love by Andrew’s dad. Hydrangeas were included in memory of my great grandparents. We loved our wooden crate wall which we used as a photo booth back drop, covered in paper flowers and fairy lights. Pizza served on the dance floor late in the night was a great success and kept the party going. We had an amazing chef create our wedding cake for us and didn’t want it to go to waste, so we decided to do wedding cake as the dessert. There were so many delicious flavors at the cake tasting that we decided to do four different flavored tiers!
DIY Elements
Andrew’s mom made us personalised handpainted signage. We designed our Save the Date magnets and had them laser cut in wood. My brother designed all the printed wedding stationery, as well as our wedding invitation website. Our rings were made by a close friend.
Planning Notes
The whole day was just perfect, we loved every moment. Our bridesmaids and groomsmen were so amazing and supportive, as was our family. We finished the planning in advance, so we could relax and enjoy the time leading up to our wedding with our loved ones.
Advice for Future Brides & Grooms
Don’t leave any planning to the last minute as this creates unnecessary stress leading up to your wedding. Get vendors who you can trust to run the day for you, so you can enjoy it. We did a full walk-through with our co-ordinator and decor team so there was no guess work involved, and everything was as we envisioned it.
You can see more from this wedding on the As Sweet As Images blog.
SERVICE PROVIDERS
Venue, catering & coordination: White Light | Photography: As Sweet As Images | Flowers & décor: The Artistry | Stationery: Bride’s brother | Cake: Pure Pastry | Bride’s dress: De La Vida (with alterations) | Hair & makeup: Makeup by Lauren | Bridesmaids’ dresses: YDE | DJ: ZooSound