About the Event

Whether you’re camping under the stars or staying in five-star style in a luxury game lodge, there is something so irresistibly romantic about the African bush. What better setting than to say “I do” to your beloved?

We call this look ‘In love in Africa’. It was inspired by Ralph Lauren ad campaigns, bush lodge chic, Ardmore and Mavromac African cushions, fabrics and colours, lantern light, game drives and sunsets. Our chosen colour palette featured black, chocolate brown, stone/taupe, white, grey, sky blue, sage green and burnt orange.

This reception theme translates across all seasons as it is timeless, really. A bush setting is the ideal backdrop, but a colonial-style, city location would work just as well. The look is likely to appeal to couples who want to create an Out of Africa feel for their wedding day and those who like muted tones and elegant influences. It’s perfect for a destination wedding at a game lodge and has a very (bush) chic, romantic feel.

The ceremony area was set up around a large tree that featured linen draping, hanging calabashes and lanterns. The aisle was lined with dried leaves and surrounded by canvas safari chairs with calabash and flower decorative details..”

Post-ceremony, guests were treated to typical safari-style refreshments: think G&Ts, ice-cold beers, Amarula and champagne. The latter featured personalised labels and were presented in sophisticated silver ice buckets placed on butler’s trays. Snacks included bowls of dry wors, mango strips and cashew nuts, all labelled in keeping with the theme. It goes without saying that your main meal should feature authentic South African flavours and bush favourites as well.

The reception table was dressed in crisp white linen with exquisite crockery and cutlery. Silver candle stands, tea lights, crystal glasses, sky blue linen napkins and printed place cards added to the sophisticated feel, while the fleur-de-lis name card holders, also in silver, provided a subtle sense of tradition, style and history. Soft blankets in muted tones were placed on the backs of each canvas chair for warmth.

The table displays featured succulents, pincushion Proteas and roses in long, dark wooden bowls. (Low flower arrangements are ideal for warm, intimate settings; they don’t get in the way of guests either.) The bride’s bouquet also featured pincushion Proteas , as well as sage green succulents and twigs; it was rustic, long and bold! The bridesmaid carried a simple, striking white protea only.