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SA Weddings

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Natalie & Jako

Tell us your love story, how did it all begin?

We met in high school, we quickly became good friends in grade 8 as we were in the same class. We even went to matric farewell together so it is easy to see that we have always had a connection. One year after school we finally started dating and three years after that we got engaged! So basically we are high school sweethearts.

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How did he propose?

We went camping on the game farm, with good friends, where Jako used to work and study. Jako arranged a late evening game drive with a pre-arranged surprise stop on a hill with a beautiful view of the farm and the sunset. We made our way up the hill. As we got to the top and I saw the rose petals and champagne, I was still unaware of what was about to happen. I walked to the edge to admire the view and as I turned around Jako was on his knee! I obviously said YES!

How did you find the planning process? Did you make use of SAWeddings.co.za?

It was very exciting! I immediately jumped into it and had great support from my family. The wedding was planned long before our set date!

Where did you draw your planning inspiration from?

I have always known what I wanted my wedding to look like. Both Jako and I love the bushveld so I incorporated that into our theme. I incorporated lots of natural elements due to the fact that we love nature.

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What was the most memorable and special part of your wedding day?

The first look ! We had most of our portrait photos taken prior to the ceremony so we had planned a special way for Jako and I to see each other for the first time. This was a special and intimate moment and that also why it is our favorite.

What was your wedding theme (if you had one) and why did you choose it?

Our theme was a natural and rustic mix. This fits both our personalities and interests. Our main colors were brown, green, lavender and white.

What was the inspiration behind your wedding dress as well as the bridesmaids' dresses?

My dress was the complete opposite of what I always thought I would wear. My mom, dad and brother were with me the first time I went to try on dresses. I told the assistant to bring different styles so we can see what looks best. All of them were lovely but when I put my dress on everyone was in tears and I just felt beautiful!

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Your décor and flowers: Do you have a specific reason why you chose what you did?

We chose lavender, gyps, rock roses and proteas for our flowers. The lavender and gyps gave a lovely soft and fairytale look to our wedding and the rock roses as well as the protea was linked to our nature and rustic theme. All of these flowers are beautiful and simple, which is exactly what we wanted.

Did you incorporate any DIY items?

Yes!! Many of the features in our wedding we made ourselves. Our welcome signs, table numbers, menus, programs, the guest gifts and even our wedding cake were all made by us!

What song did you choose for your opening dance and why?

We chose a Thousand Years by Sawyer Fredericks because of the beautiful lyrics!

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What is your favourite, will-never-forget memory of your big day?

Our first dance! We had a choreographed dance and we felt like professionals as we performed in front of all our guests!! We still remember all the cheers and applause that we got!

Any advice for other brides-to-be/grooms-to-be who are busy planning their big day?

We would have to say that it is very important to plan ahead and to do your planning in an organized and timely fashion. By doing this you will definitely relieve stress when the wedding day is closing in! This also gives you more time to budget properly!

Did you go on honeymoon and if so, where did you go?

Yes we did ! We went to a lodge outside the Kruger national park.

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