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Samantha & Francois - A fabulous wedding

11/13/2014

Samantha and Francois wedding day had finally arrived after months of planning, and there was a lot of excitement in the air mixed with a few nerves. Their fabulous wedding which was both elegant and romantic was at Destiny Lodge, a beautiful wedding venue in Cullinan.

When we arrived at the venue, there was a flurry of last minute preparation being done by Sam's mom and grandmothers, who were the ladies responsible for the fabulous decor and flowers. The decor was a mix of silvers and whites with a hint of purple, which gave the reception a very chic and elegant look. The ever thoughtful Sam and Francois had made sure that the children had special packs that were packed full of cookies and sweets, while the adults had the most delicious chocolates as their thank you's.

The couple had gotten each other special wedding gifts for the day, and we were the lucky ones who got to deliver them. So we got some beautiful photographs of the Francois opening the boudoir album Sam had done for him, and of Sam unwrapping the stunning Thomas Sabo bracelet Francois had bought for her.

The ladies started to prepare for the main event by getting their makeup and hair done, while the men celebrated with a glass of champagne and cigars with Lee-Anne (my second photographer for ther day) and had a few photos taken. And then it was time, Sam looked magnificent in her gown, and was proudly walked down the aisle by her dad and gorgeous son Calvin. A short but beautiful ceremony later, Sam and Francois were finally husband and wife.

We had the perfect soft romantic light for their couple shoot, and these two look amazing on camera and their love really shines through. The reception started with a few speeches before Destiny Lodge served a delicous dinner. The highlight of the day for most, was when Calvin stood up and gave a speech welcoming Francois into his family and referred to him as Dad. He had the whole wedding party reaching for tissues when he said that he is glad Francois is part of his Mom's life, as when his Mom is happy, the hidings hurt less.

This was a beautiful and very memorable wedding, and I would like to thank Lee-Anne for working with me and helping to record the memories for this fabulous couple. Sam and Francois would also like to thank all of the awesome suppliers (listed below) that helped them plan and pull off this elegant wedding.

Lastly, I would like to thank Sam and Fafa for choosing me to be part of your wedding day. From the chats, to the frantic stressed out messages, I wouldn't change a single thing. Working with you was an absolute pleasure, and I wish you both a very happy future together. I hope that you are blessed soon with the twin baby girls you are trying for.

Love
Chantal
XXX

Sam & Francois Wedding - Destiny Lodge

Samantha and Francois would like to thank the following suppliers for being so awesome and for making their day so special:
Venue: Destiny Lodge Cullinan
Bridal Hair & Makeup: Mari Bridal
Cupcakes: Subcultcha
Wedding Stationary: Tanya

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Morongoa & Basil - Stylish beyond compare

10/2/2014

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As the morning of Morongoa and Basil's wedding dawned, it was destined to be a day filled with excitement, emotion and incredible beauty. The amount of planning and detail that they had incorporated into their big day resulted in the most beautiful day with so many intricate details.

When we arrived at Oakfield Farm, we were greated by a very emotional Morongoa, it was finally here, the day she would say I do to the love of her life! While bridal retinue was hard at work getting themselves looking glamorous, we went off to the photograph the incredibly beautiful reception decor in Homestead. The team at Oakfield Farm and Cafe Fleur had been hard at work, as not a thing was out of place. The whites, pinks and silver colours gave the reception a very elegant and stylish feel, which reflects the couple so perfectly.

As the morning slipped away, and it was almost time for the ceremony, the men decided to have a whisky to steady the nerves. They looked very dashing in their grey suits, and had an awesome time doing some photographs with Diana who was my second photographer for the day.

The ceremony started with Tiro singing Ave Maria, and Basil was visibly nervous and a little emotional. The nerves all vanished as his beautiful bride walked down the aisle towards him, and was replaced biggest smile I have ever seen. After a lovely ceremony, Morongoa and Basil suddenly looked very content and relaxed. Although we had run a little late, and had a short time for the formal couple shoot, we got some lovely images of the couple, before it was reception time. The reception was a huge party, starting with the bridal party entering while doing the harlem shuffle. Delicious food, some emotional speeches and loads of dancing and laughter completed this amazing day.

Thank you to all of the amazing suppliers (listed below) who really worked hard to make this day perfect for Morongoa and Basil. A huge thank you also goes to Diana, who was amazing to work with. Its awesome to have you as part of my team, and look forward to working with you again!

Lastly, to Mo and Basil, thank you so much for allowing me to be part of this amazing day, it was a honour working with you both. I am blessed to have you in my life, no longer as clients, but as friends. I wish you the all of the best, and may your love continue to grow stronger as the years pass.

Love
Chantal
XXX

Morongoa and Basil - Oakfield Farm Wedding

Thank you to all of the amazing suppliers:

Decor & Flowers - Cafe Fleur
Makeup - Azanian Makeup
Cake - JHB Cullinary & Pastry School
Mens Suits - Ramzay Creations
Minister - Paster Alistair Westcott
Wedding Dress Designer - RJK Creations
Photobooth - The Photocorner
Flowergirls dresses and bridal accessories - DNR Creations
Video - Laugh Catcher Videos
Singer - Tiro
DJ and lighting - Starlight Sounds

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Planning your Wedding Day - Wedding Cake Tips!

9/11/2014

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Reality TV shows, such as Cake Boss or our local Charlys Cake Angels, have changed the way we see, think and feel about wedding cakes. Especially the way they look and taste. These shows have led to an explosion of different and unique options, sizes, shapes, flavours, colours and decorating techniques – nothing is impossible or too much. As there is just so much choice out there, I have decided to try and give you a few tips to consider when choosing your bakery and wedding cake.

The first step, before even meeting with your decorator is to think about what colours you want your wedding to be. For some brides this is easy as they have been planning this day since they were 5, while for others it is a little harder. The best thing to do is to start gathering ideas and inspiration of the things you love. This can be done online (Pinterest is a fantastic tool) or by looking through magazines. If you have a Pinterest board, this will make it a lot easier for your decorator to get a feel of what you like and want for your wedding day.

Booking your cake decorator:

Fabric swatches - Image courtesy of Megperotti.com

To avoid disappointment, it is best to book your wedding cake decorate/bakery early. Like most things wedding, all the good decorators get booked months in advance and are therefore quickly fully booked. And specialist bakers will limit the number of cakes they make a week.

When you make an appointment to meet with your prospective cake decorators, be sure to bring along your Pinterest board, magazine pictures or any photos that can be used as a guideline. Also bring along a copy of your invite, table centre pieces and/or flowers. Think about the theme and colours you want on your cake: traditional white with splashes of colour or maybe something more fun and unusual.

A great thing to bring along is fabric swatches, as they can give the decorator a good idea of the colours, theme and general look and feel of your reception. Keep in mind that, your cake should match the theme of your wedding and can or should be the centre piece of your reception.

The size of your Wedding Cake:

Chart courtesy of www.cremecakery.com

The size of your cake is traditionally determined by the number of people that will be attending your wedding and when you are planning on serving it. You do not want to be left with three quarters of your cake after your wedding. Therefore, it is important to discuss this with your decorator.

In terms of when to cut your cake, it’s a new trend to cut it straight after the ceremony, as this gives your guests something to nibble on while you are having your photos. Another trend is to use your cake as part of your dessert table.

Hence, be sure to discuss the number of people and when you are planning to serve your cake with your decorator, so they can advise on the size of cake required for your wedding.

Type of Wedding Cake:

Tiered cake, cupcakes, mini cakes, cake pops or push pops? A tiered cake always has a wow factor and really forms a centre piece at your reception. However, cupcakes, mini cakes or cake pops are just as pretty and much easier to serve. Something to keep in mind is that people can easily take home their cupcake, meaning you are not left with additional cakes. However, with a slice of cake, unless you provide boxes, they are not easy to take home.

Cake design by Sugarbean Cakes

Cupcakes by Lil Delights

Cake pops - Courtesy of aweddingcakeblog.com

Push pops - Courtesy of ebonypeoples.com

Wedding Cake Flavours:

Cake Flavours - Image courtesy of cakesncupcakesng.com

Wedding cakes are no longer just plain fruit cakes; they now can come in whatever flavour you desire, whether it is vanilla sponge or red velvet. The options and choices are limitless. Therefore, it is best to decide between yourself and your fiancé what flavours you like and which you don’t like. This will make your choice a little easier. However, if you can’t choose, select a few flavours and ask your decorator if you can do a cake tasting. Often a cake tasting is an additional cost but it is worth it, as you want a delicious moist cake that you and your guests will enjoy on the day.

Overall look of your Wedding Cake:

Buttercream icing is delicious, but doesn’t give a beautiful smooth finish to a cake like fondant does. Also, fondant allows your cake decorator to be creative with your decorations and make beautiful trimmings for and on your cake, such as sugar flowers, piping and painting. Another trendy icing option is chocolate ganache, which is very rich and gives an almost smooth finish to your cake. If you like the look of fondant but not the taste, speak to your decorator about the possibility of icing your cake with buttercream or chocolate ganache and then covering it with fondant. This will mean that it looks great and tastes great too. Just remember elaborate decorations, sugar flowers, trimmings, etc will add to the cost of your cake.

An easy way to make your cake look fun and unique is to include cake toppers. A relatively inexpensive option is to purchase cute porcelain or plastic bride and groom toppers. Alternatively, you can order monogram letters. Otherwise, speak to your decorator about making sugar flowers or gum paste figurines to top your cake. These are edible but can also be kept for years.

Cake Design - Annicas Cakes

Cake Design - Casalinga Ristorante

Cake Design by Family member

Image courtsey of weddingtopic.com

Paying for a Wedding Cake:

Cake prices are usually based on the size of the cake, i.e. number of servings and the intricate, time consuming little details that need to be added to the cake. Be prepared to pay a deposit to secure your booking, as you are unlikely to find a decorator that will even start your cake without a deposit. The balance is usually payable 2 – 3 weeks before your wedding date.

It is important to find out if your cake decorator will deliver and set up your cake on the day. As well as, what the additional cost would be or if it is included in the cake cost. Finally, keep in mind that you will need a cake stand for the day of the wedding. A lot of cake decorators hire them out. You would need to find out if that is possible and what the cost would be. There are many hidden or forgotten costs when choosing a wedding cake, so be sure to ask all these questions and more upfront.

Shelley & Garith's Wedding - Cake Design by Charly's Bakery

Last thing to remember is "let them eat cake" and enjoy your wedding day!

A big THANK YOU needs to go to L’il Delights (www.lil-delights.com) for helping me gather and put all this info together, and for the increase in dress size as I am often used as the taste tester of all sorts of deliciousness!

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Carrie & Greg - A French Affair

8/28/2014

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One of the most amazing couples I know, Carrie and Greg, got married in December at the beautiful Morrells in Northcliff. Their theme was vintage French and it definitely had the wow factor! The shabby chic decor included a variety of flowers, little perfume bottles, silver teapots and bird cages with little birds. The little details along with the fabulous venue suited this classy couple so well with its simple elegance.

When I first met them, Carrie explained that the little birds that were incoporated in the decor were a tribute to her Mom who would be watching over them from heaven during the day. I am pretty sure that this little touch, along with the amazing lady that Carrie is, made her mom proud and smile down at the beautiful couple.

Carrie looked magnificent in her vintage inspired gown from De La Vida Gowns, she took her handsome grooms breathe away as she walked down the aisle. The day was perfect in every way for this lovely couple, even the weather played along with us, as the huge thunderstorm that threatened all day only hit when every one was inside the reception enjoying the delicious cocktail dinner.

A big shout out goes to all the suppliers (listed below) for making Carrie and Greg's Wedding day so perfect. Another big thank you goes to my amazing second photographer Sherrie for all of her hard work in assisting me.

To Carrie and Greg, my ginger couple, you guys are fabulous and I just love you! I am so lucky to have met you and to have shared your day with you. Its awesome to count you as friends, and I wish you both huge success in your careers and a very happy and long life together.

Here is a peak at their special day
Love
Chantal
XXX

Carrie & Greg's Wedding - Morrells Boutique Hotel

A huge shout out to the amazing suppliers that made this day so perfect:

Venue, Food and Flowers: Morrells – rynhardt@morrells.co.za

Wedding gown: De La Vida Bridal Couture - justine@delavida.co.za

Wedding Officer: Ryan Hogarth – ryan.hogarth@gmail.com

Wedding Cake: Annicas Cakes – annicas@mweb.co.za

Grooms Suit – Khaliques Fordburg

Wedding Stationary – Scrap Crazee Meyersdal (Kathy)– scrapcrazee@mweb.co.za

Make up – Makeup By Monique - info@makeupbymonique.co.za

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Nikki & Fotis - A fabulous wedding at JHB Country Club

7/31/2014

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Glamorous is the word that comes to mind when I think of this young couple ... Nikki and Fotis are both Doctors who have the most insanely busy schedule, but they pulled off the most fabulous wedding at Saheti and the Johannesburg Country Club in Woodmead last October.

From the colour scheme which reminded them of the sunset on the beach in Greece where Fotis proposed to his beautiful bride, to every last intricate detail, this is a wedding I will never forget. Nikki looked amazing in her fabulous gown, Fotis very handsome in his bowtie and tuxedo. They are a beautiful couple in every way.

It was my first time photographing a Greek wedding, and things are slightly different with the exchanging of rings by the best man and maid of honour and the Stefana ceremony followed by the walking around the altar, so it was very exciting for me. To top it all off they celebrated into the night with the traditional Greek dancing, throwing of the plates and the men dancing around the whisky glass.

I would like to thank all of the suppliers who made this day so perfect for them, as well as Chris who was my second photographer for the day, and took care of things when we were at different venues. Lastly a message to the lovely couple ... Nikki and Fotis, it was so special being part of your big day. I wish you both and your families all of the best and that you have many happy years together.

Here is a peak at their fabulous day

Love
Chantal
XXX

Nikki & Fotis Wedding - Johannesburg Country Club

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Evadne & Jerome ... Winter Wonderland Wedding

4/29/2014

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The 25th of August was the big day for one of the most amazing couples, Evadne and Jerome, who tied the knot at a spectacular winter themed wedding at Avianto in Muldersdrift.

I worked closely with them during the planning of their big day and as they are both perfectionists, not a thing was out of place. The decor was spectacular with crystals hanging from the trees and sparkles everywhere, and true to their nature the guests were well taken care of with a very yummy sweet table and flipflops to dance in. Evadne was fabulous in her Maggie Sottero Gowns and Benjamin Adams shoes, while Jerome was an incredibly handsome groom. It was a very emotional wedding, and both Sherrie and I had to wipe tears away during the vows. My absolute favourite moment in this wedding is the look on Evadne's face when Jerome tells her she looks beautiful as she got to the front of the ceremony.

To this amazing couple, thank you for being so wonderful. You both looked fabulous on your wedding day and I loved being part of your magical day. I wish you great success and many happy moments together. Thank you also to the suppliers (listed below) who helped them to create the Winter Wonderland!

All our love
Chantal and Sherrie
XXX

Evadne & Jerome's Wedding - Avianto

Thank you to the amazing suppliers listed below:
Make up - Janell Donders
DJ- Chilli funk
Deco- Perfect day
Venue - Avianto
Dresses - Eve's bridal wear
Cake - Cupcake boutique
Suit - Khaliques
Shoes - Christiaan Michael

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Angela & Tys - A Match Made in Heaven

3/9/2014

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Angela and Tys are such an amazing couple, they have so much love for each other and its so evident when you see them together. Chris and I were fortunate to get to share their Wedding day with them on the 10th of August 2013 at the stunning Oakfield Farm Wedding Venue in Muldersdrift.

The day was perfect, not one thing out of place. The decor and flowers were a beautiful combimation of Sweet peas, Roses and Protea's which made the reception venue smell like a spring garden. It was a lovely winters day, we were blessed with beautiful warm and a calm but slightly emotional couple.

My favourite touch of the whole day was the garter ... The Blue Bulls pin as Tys is a Bulls supporter, Angela I must add is a very passionate Sharks supporter!

The couple shoot was filled with lots of laughs and giggles as the animals at Oakfield Farm decided to make themselves part of the wedding, and even ended up in a few of the photos. From the horse that made it known that we were in his territory while we were in the stables to the cows that followed us through the fields it was a fun but rather noisy couple shoot!

To Angela and Tys, I can't thank you enough for asking me to photograph your wedding. It was a true fairytale wedding ... Both Chris and I wish you many happy moments in your life together, filled with the same giggles and laughs we saw in the stables, and the same love we saw in the chapel. You are a wonderful couple in every sense and I am so fortunate to now call you friends.

Thank you to the lovely suppliers (listed below) for all their hard work and dedication in helping to make Angela & Tys's wedding day a beautiful reality.

Love always
Chantal and Chris
XXX

Angela & Tys Wedding - Oakfield Farm

Suppliers for Angela & Tys's Wedding
Make-up: Make-up by Monique
Flowers: Manifique Flower Art
Decor and Venue: Oakfield Farm Wedding Venue

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Rene & Tinus's Wedding at Casa Toscana Pretoria

11/17/2013

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Rene and Tinus are such a wonderful couple, incredibly loving and very camera shy! They planned their wedding in just a few short weeks after falling in love with the beautiful reception room at Casa Toscana Lodge in Pretoria.

From the exquiste gown designed by Ahmed, to the stunning decor this wedding was perfect ... well actually almost perfect! Thank goodness while photographing Tinus's details, I discovered his new shoes were both right shoes, and we had just enough time to buy him a new pair.

When Marcia and I were capturing this perfect couple getting ready, the only concern they had was for each other, and I know that this is a match made in heaven. What a beautiful wedding, the bride and groom look so happy together, and I would really like to thank the suppliers (listed below) for helping them pull off such a lovely day, and to Marcia, my friend and mentor for being my assistant for the day!

To Rene and Tinus, it was a pleasure meeting you and working with you. With such a spark and love between you two I know that you will have the best life together filled with great journeys and loads of happiness.

Love
Chantal and Marcia
XXX

Rene & Tinus Wedding - Casa Toscana

Venue:                     Casa Toscana Lodge Pretoria
Wedding Gown:    Ahmed
Make-up:                 Maralize van Wyk
Hair:                           Juan - 084 426 6420

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Lizelle & Werner's Beautiful Wedding Day - Ekudeni Wedding Venue

5/8/2013

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When I think of Lizelle and Werner, I think of a really down to earth couple. Their engagement shoot was a really chilled and fun afternoon, and I was really looking forward to their wedding day on the 23rd of March 2013.

They chose the stunning Ekudeni Wedding and Conference Venue for their big day, and I am sure they couldn't have asked for anything better as it is a very elegant venue. The reception decor was so beautiful and romantic, the perfect setting for this lovely couples wedding.

Although the weather really didn't work with us, from extreme heat, to a massive storm, it was a stunning wedding. The very nervous Werner looked very handsome in his suit, and Lizelle looked so beautiful!

To Lizelle and Werner, I wish you all of the best for the future, filled with love and happiness! Here is a sneak peak of their wedding!

Lizelle & Werner's Wedding Day - Ekudeni Wedding & Conference Venue

I would like to thank all of the suppliers that helped make this a glamorous affair and my lovely assistant Sherrie for all of her hard work on the day.
Venue:                         Ekudeni Wedding and Conference Venue
Wedding Gown:     GIA Bridal Boutique
Make-up:                    Bella Make-up
Hair:                             S P à La Mode

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Preview: Annie & Stefan at Zambesi Point

1/9/2013

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I met the lovely Annie in 2011, just after Stefan asked for her hand in marriage, and since then we have gotten to know each other pretty well during the planning of their big day. The date was a special one: 12/12/12, and I just knew this was going to be a different and fun wedding.

The day started with really bad and rainy weather, and while all of us prayed for blue sky, the staff at Zambesi Point Wedding Venue put the final touches on the ceremony and reception. The sun came out as we arrived at Pillow and Spoon, and we were greeted by an excited but calm bride, a nervous groom and the chilled groomsmen. The count down began! We chased the grooms party away to the venue as soon as they were ready to prevent them seeing the bride. Final touches on the make-up and hair, slipping into the dress and the glamorous bride and bridesmaids emerged.

The ceremony was very special, with Annie deciding to profess her love without the microphone, and Stefan whispering his vows in her ear. Mr and Mrs De Jager then walked down the aisle to loads of congratulations from their family and friends. We had an amazing couple shoot with some dramatic cloudy skies, and some very sexy shots before we joined the guests for a lovely dinner in the lapa. What really struck me about this wedding was the attention to detail, which was fun and refreshing!

Annie and Stefan, thank you for including Sherrie (my wonderful hardworking assistant) and I in your special day. You truly do fit together "Soos n Puzzle", and I wish you all of the best for the future filled with lots of love that continues to grow.

Here is a sneak peak of this special day, and for those interested the suppliers are listed below.

Annie & Stefan's Wedding - Zambesi Point

Suppliers:

B&B:                      Pillow & Spoon Guesthouse
Venue:                 Zambesi Point Wedding & Function Venue
Gown:                 Amante Bridal Wear
Shoes:                NYJunction - Menlyn
Make-up:            Make-up by Cristina
Hair:                   Sandrina Dos Santos Cooper
Flowers:              Flowerworld Wholesalers
Cake:                   A Touch of Art Cakes
Cake Topper:    Nicolas Cooper
DJ:                        Wedding Crashers

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.

Samantha & Francois - A fabulous wedding

Morongoa & Basil - Stylish beyond compare

Planning your Wedding Day - Wedding Cake Tips!

Carrie & Greg - A French Affair

Nikki & Fotis - A fabulous wedding at JHB Country Club

Evadne & Jerome ... Winter Wonderland Wedding

Angela & Tys - A Match Made in Heaven

Rene & Tinus's Wedding at Casa Toscana Pretoria

Lizelle & Werner's Beautiful Wedding Day - Ekudeni Wedding Venue

Preview: Annie & Stefan at Zambesi Point

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