Wednesday, November 27, 2013

A Stunning South African Wedding

Words by Taylor Wilson
Photos courtesy of Amanda Kopp Images

Erik’s African heritage combined with Paulina’s love for animals made a game reserve in South Africa the ideal location for the couple’s destination wedding. The guest list included forty of the couple’s closest family and friends along with three orphaned elephants and a handful of other curious critters. “It was the best way to combine several of the things we love: traveling, Africa, animals and spending time with friends,” says Paulina.

Because Erik was born and raised in Africa, he was quite knowledgeable about the region, which made coordinating from afar much easier. The couple had a clear idea of what they wanted, but with the help of a phenomenal wedding coordinator, they were able to achieve so much more than they could have expected.

Handmade invitations, wedding programs, dinner menus and thank you gifts added a simple, elegant and personalized element to the entire event. The style was inspired by Africa and the green and crème theme colors tied in the celebration’s décor. The handmade stationery not only added personality, but also gave the couple and their families quality time bonding over cutting, gluing and embossing. All aspects tied together created a stunningly sophisticated setting.

The couple was lucky enough to have a musically talented bridesmaid perform special songs during the ceremony. Erik picked a song called “Stay with You,” which was performed right after the vows. Paulina chose a Swedish song called “Av Längtan Till Dig” (Longing for You) which was about the excitement of having found the soul mate you have been waiting for your whole life. This special performance made the ceremony extra sentimental.

There is no doubt that Erik and Paulina made the right decision to host their destination wedding in such a meaningful, exotic location. Every moment of the weekend was perfect and they were able to provide their guests with an unforgettable vacation. “We had a dream wedding and on top of that, our friends enjoyed an amazing trip to South Africa. A win-win situation!” says the bride.

As far as advice goes for other brides looking to host a destination wedding, Paulina suggests, “There is no such thing as too much time to prepare when it comes to a destination wedding. Everything takes a little longer and is a little more complicated, so planning is essential. Getting a good wedding coordinator was a savior for us. She helped to keep us calm and relaxed on our big day”.

Vendors: Photographer: Amanda Kopp Images, Event Design and Planning: Beadri Eloff - Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Floral Designer: Fancy Functions, Cake: Jackie Theron, Catering: Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Hair & Makeup: Mari Douglas, Dress: Milly Bridal, Shoes: Wildflower, Jewelry: Beijing Market, Ceremony Musicians: Herman Hallonsten and Marina Hansson, Reception Entertainment: Likhwezi Dancers, Bridesmaids Dresses: JenJenHouse, Men's Attire: Tailored by D&J Fine Tailoring, Beijing, Invitations/Programs: Anna Brandberg (graphic designer)