The past weekend saw twelve beautiful brides from all over South Africa arriving in bustling Johannesburg for the crowning event of the 16th annual SA Weddings 'Bride of the Year' competition. The grand finale, took place at the renowned Tintswalo at Waterfall, on 27 May 2017. The winner, Mrs. Monique Moolman, walked away with the prestigious title, a R25 000 cash prize and a holiday and business class flights to Sands Suites Resort and Spa,in Mauritius worth R100 000 - courtesy of Air Mauritius and World Leisure Holidays!

SA Weddings Bride of the Year is South Africa's largest wedding competition, with over 5000 brides entering each year. This years gala event unfolded at the ultra luxe- Tintswalo at Waterfall boutique hotel, which was beautifully decorated by Exclusive Hire, Upstage productions and Atomic Orchid. Upstage Productions set the scene with staging, lighting and sound – turning the venue into any bride’s dream day. The four celebrity judges were MD of World Leisure Holidays Ramesh Jeenarin, RJ Benjamin, Shashi Naidoo and Sabrina Kennedy. Event guests included premium event sponsors, celebrities and most importantly, the loved ones of our finalists. Upon arrival they were treated to bubbly from Graham Beck, a Gin Cocktail courtesy of Wilderer as well as canapés from the talented chef team at Tintswalo.

Whilst our Top 12 strutted the catwalk with newlywed hubbies by their side, guests enjoyed a second round of gourmet goodness by Tintswalo served with a tasty Sauvignon Blanc from Iona as well as a gorgeous Shiraz by Vondeling wines. The after party brought about even more fun as guests treated themselves to the delicious dessert station created by Sweetly Detailed and the show stopping cheese table thanks to the very talented Maria from The Cheese Cake. Our guests were also treated to an added element of fun with the quirky photo booth by Yellow Lemon Photo Booth.

Our finalists were introduced to the audience by celebrity event MC, Graeme Richards, who was exceptional on the evening, entertaining guests with his quick wit and genuine warmth thats shines through the mic.

We had the privilege of crowning the title winners:

Bride of the Year 2016 winner: Mrs Monique Moolman -
- R25 000 cash prize from SA Weddings
- A five day holiday to Sands Suite Resort and Spa in Mauritius, together with business class flights valued at R100 000 courtesy of Air Mauritius and World Leisure Holidays
- Various other prizes valued at R18 500

1st Princess: Mrs Natália da Conceição -
- R15 000 cash prize from SA Weddings
- Various other prizes valued at R19 500

2nd Princess: Mrs Lize-Marie Millard
- R10 000 cash prize from SA Weddings
- Various other prizes valued at R19 500

From Left to Right: Mrs Photogenic: Zia Mowatt, 2nd Princess: Lize-Marie Millard,
Bride of the Year 2016 winner: Monique Moolman, 1st Princess: Natália da Conceição, Mrs Personality: Mpume Letlape

Entries for Bride of the Year 2017 have already opened. Any bride who getting married in 2017 should register on SA Weddings today to stand the best possible chance in securing their spot in next year's BOTY finale and winning fantastic prizes.

For any additional information on SA Weddings or our Bride of the Year events, kindly contact Louise at design@saweddings.co.za