Picturesque Wedding At The Beach House Collection

The Proposal

As Alex proposed to Nina during their first holiday in the Netherlands on Boxing Day, memories of their romantic and adventurous walk through Amsterdam’s cobbled streets came flooding back. The sparkling Christmas lights that adorned the city seemed to twinkle with extra magic as they sipped hot glühwein and braved the freezing cold canal-side strolls.

It was in the warmth and coziness of their picturesque apartment that Alex asked for Nina’s hand in marriage, his voice trembling with emotion as he said, ‘My Nina, you’d make me the happiest if you were to be my wife.’ Nina’s initial response was characteristically casual, but Alex interrupted her with a gentle touch on the shoulder, pulling out a small box and smiling through tears. ‘Will you please marry me?’ he asked, his voice cracking with emotion. ‘Yes, yes again, of course I will!

‘ Nina replied, her happiness spilling over as she giggled through happy tears. In her excitement, she had to remind Alex that the ring still needed to be placed on her finger, and so they popped their favourite champagne before embarking on the next chapter of their adventure, both overwhelmed with emotion.

The Yzerfontein Wedding Venue

To create an unforgettable experience for our family, we sought a setting that would delight everyone, fostering comfort, luxury, and uniqueness. Given most of us are based in Johannesburg, this was akin to a destination wedding for us. Thyme & Tide perfectly fit the bill, offering everything we needed: exchanging vows on the beach, enjoying a magical reception dinner and dancing indoors, and capturing unforgettable moments during a breathtaking hour-long sunset.

The venue’s natural beauty meant little extra effort was required to make it truly special – it already had everything we needed.

Favourite wedding memory

The experience of having our special day was so overwhelming, it’s difficult to pinpoint a single standout moment. There were just so many wonderful moments to cherish, each one unique and precious in its own way. But if I’m being completely honest, what really stands out is the look on Alex’s face when he said his vows and we became officially Husband and Wife – that kiss was truly unforgettable.

The story behind the wedding dress

My wedding dress ended up being a cherished memory from our special day. Initially, I wanted a formal, glamorous gown, but our wedding was more laid-back, and I prioritized enjoying the moment, feeling carefree, and dancing along the beach. That’s when I discovered Anna Campbell’s stunning designs, which perfectly captured my vision. I fell in love with ‘The Mia’ – a sample dress that I purchased through their online sale.

Given its casual vibe, potential alterations, and key features like silk, lace, and a flowing skirt, it was the perfect choice for our beachside celebration.

Wedding Colours

In perfect harmony, our decor and color inspirations were deeply rooted in the natural beauty of the coastal area. We drew inspiration from the region’s picturesque landscapes, where warm hues of blushed pink and dusty blue blended seamlessly with the soft, pastel tones of sun-kissed sunsets. The ocean’s dramatic waves of color and the sand’s sparkle, infused with the delicate pink and purple hues of shells, were also a key influence.

To bring this vision to life, we incorporated bohemian-inspired elements into our beachside ceremony on the dunes, where the ocean served as a breathtaking backdrop. Our reception table featured an array of lush flowers, dried naturals, and meticulously crafted coastal details that exuded a sense of luxury and whimsy.

Advice to other couples

As you plan your wedding, it’s essential to identify the non-negotiables that matter most to you as a couple. This could include everything from having a specific venue or catering option to including certain family members in the celebration. With this clarity, you’ll be better equipped to set a realistic budget and make tough decisions about what to prioritize and what to compromise on.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your planning to stay within your means, even if that means making sacrifices or finding innovative solutions. The key is to strike a balance between your desires and your financial reality. For us, having our parents and siblings present at the wedding was non-negotiable, which initially led us to consider eloping.

However, we ultimately decided on a micro-wedding that allowed us to have our dream Yzerfontein beach ceremony while still being mindful of our budget constraints. It wasn’t easy to make this decision, but it ultimately felt right for us. Remember, planning a wedding should be an enjoyable experience, not a source of stress and anxiety. Don’t get too caught up in the details – instead, focus on what really matters to you both.

And when the big day finally arrives, take time to appreciate the moment with your new spouse. Time flies by quickly, so be sure to cherish every second of it.

Vendors of this incredible Yzerfontein Wedding:

Behind the scenes of this stunning wedding, a talented team of professionals worked together to bring the couple’s vision to life. Photographer Jo-ann Stokes captured every moment, from the joy on the bride’s face as she prepared for her big day at Thyme & Tide, to the love that filled the air during the ceremony and reception. The beautiful bride got ready at Maki Saki, surrounded by loved ones and the warm glow of candles.

Makeup artist Lauren worked her magic to give the bride a flawless look, while hairstylist Lauren added volume and texture to her locks. Yes! Exclusive Flowers created breathtaking arrangements that complemented the couple’s rustic-chic aesthetic, adding a touch of whimsy to every corner of the venue. The ceremony was officiated by Minister Stephen Van Basten, who brought warmth and humor to the proceedings.

Guests received elegant invitations from Oh Yay Stationary, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration. The bride and groom shared their first dance as husband and wife to Five6Seven8’s soulful sounds, while indulging in decadent treats from Florentines’ Wedding Cake and Cupcakes. And finally, the couple exchanged rings crafted by GC Manufacturing, a symbol of their eternal love and commitment to one another.