Geoff and Cortnee wanted to spoil their guests to a moroccan / boho wedding, a semi-formal, laid back affair with gorgeous pops of colour. They opted for a neutral palette with hints of winter-warmer colours like marsala berries, dark greens and touches of blue in the decor and flowers. The bride had free reign to choosing the palette and theme but incorporated a bonfire – the one request from the groom.
Planner, Carolyn Hall, from I adore weddings assisted in bringing Cortnee’s vision to life. Every tables’ decor was different, nothing was symmetrical and all vases used were mix match – exactly what she had envisioned. There were loads of Persian rugs and cozy corners, a Moroccan tent and some dream catchers handmade by the bride with assistance of a friend. Most of the decor and rugs were borrowed from family members and made this event extra special. The family assisted to search high and low for two peacock chairs that they could use whilst signing the registry. Cortnees mother-in-law assisted in decorating scatters with left over crochet doilies.
The brides Gran made 10 plant hanging macramé’s which hung over the dance floor and where filled with loads of greenery. This tied the whole theme together.
How did you two meet?
We knew each other from school, but the real story started eight years ago when my brother (best friends with Geoff’s brother) invited Geoff away on our annual January family holiday to Mozambique. It was here that our friendship/love story grew and I found a person I have never laughed so much with. My mom looked at me and said please bring someone like Geoff home-actually just bring Geoff home! Geoff was only meant to stay a few days, but a few days turned into 2 weeks, and we soon found ourselves making any excuse to see each other.
Geoff studied in Stellies, and I was based in Cape Town, student budgets were not going to stop us and every cent went to our petrol tanks. After our final year of studies we both moved back to Durban and planned our next adventure. Geoff moved to OZ and I moved to London and we did five months long distance, not easy with the time difference but we knew we could do it.
Geoff then joined me in London, we quickly learnt how to adapt to a small space together (our first house was lounge/bedroom/ dining room in one). London offered us amazing opportunities were we got to travel and create unforgettable memories together. Just over two years of traveling, I moved back to Durban for work and Geoff returned shortly after.
Tell us about the proposal
We both think Valentines day is a bit cheesy – red roses, candlelit dinner for two and so much pressure on the guy, so we quickly changed that and came up with our own Valentines day tradition – we alternate Valentines day and each of us gets a turn to surprise one another every other year.
Geoff took me to Lake Naverone in the Drakensberg in 2015 for the weekend. He organised a private horse ride, and the most phenomenal picnic over looking a lake where he had thought of everything down to my favourite flowers, chocolate and champagne. It was there that Geoff proposed to me, playing out of his boots (horse riding and hiding a ring!!!) We had the most phenomenal weekend together I could not have planned it better!
Advice for other couples?
Throughout your planning and the build up to your special day, constantly remember and remind yourself as to why you are having a wedding. This day is about you and your partner and making a commitment to one another forever. I think one of the most important things to do before any planning commences, decide on a budget. Once you have established a budget, decide on what is most important to you both and prioritise your budget accordingly. We were engaged for 15 months before our wedding so we had ample time to plan.
When deciding on a theme for your wedding, choose something that most resembles your personality not what is in fashion, this way you will forever love your wedding pics and your memories will be true to who you are.
I highly recommend taking time off after your wedding, this time away gives you the opportunity to unwind, rest and reflect back on what will be the most phenomenal, memorable day of your life!!! Enjoy this time it goes so fast, and remember to always set time aside for ‘us’ time.
Lovilees that made the day possible included
Photographer: Bron Veale from Vanilla photography
Videography: Lauren from Olivers twist productions
Wedding Coordinator & Flowers: Carolyn Hall from Adore Weddings and Events
Food: Jacqui Ray from Food matters
DJ: Dave Ward from Topjocks
Dress: Francois Vedemme
Make-up & Hair: Lindsay Nixon from Nixon makeup
Venue: The Venue Fontana
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