Safari Vows

Andi and Andrew were married on 11^th August 2018 at Thanda Safari Game Reserve in South Africa.

How did you meet? We met in Cannes, France at a work conference, spotting each other like two giraffes over the crowds. I had just come from Kenya and it was my first time in France while Andrew was starting a new venture in Rome. I had been in Rome the week before and met a friend of Andrew’s which we discovered with great excitement. Andrew took a photo of me to send to his friend for confirmation and still has that picture 7 years later. Little did we know that our meeting would change our lives as I moved from South Africa to Rome to be with Andrew.

How did the proposal happen? Andrew surprised me at the front door while I was visiting family in the Cotswolds. He proposed as I opened the door and we spent the weekend celebrating with family. It was perfect.

Where did the wedding take place? On Andi’s favourite game reserve, Thanda Safari in KZN, South Africa

What did the bride wear? A beautiful Miss Hayley Paige dress. I tried on so many gorgeous gowns and was going for something more traditional with lace, but when I tried this dress on I knew it was the one. The beading in the dress reminded me so much of Africa and the tribal necklaces I am so inspired by.

What did the rest of the bridal party wear?I am lucky enough to have had a bridesmaid who is a fashion designer. None of my bridesmaids saw my dress until the day but Jess understood my vision and designed beautiful dresses for our safari chic wedding. They also wore beaded neck pieces and earrings with tribal shoes.

What was your theme? Safari chic.

Describe your cake? Andrew and I were very relaxed with catering, we had been to Thanda before and knew their level was so high! John, the executive Chef, and his lovely wife surprised us with the most delicious carrot cake, we absolutely loved.

What were the highlights? Oh, this is an impossible question as the whole day was an absolute fairytale. The traditional Zulu Mammas that lead me down the aisle is certainly a moment I will never forget. Goosebumps!

Your best buy? We bought a little polaroid camera that was passed around and the natural snaps taken by everyone over the weekend are really special.

How did it end? After the DJ played Andrea Bocelli, “Time to say goodbye” we were escorted though the bush to our honeymoon tent which had been beautifully set up for us.