Capetonians Fran and Paul are two of those real and down to earth souls who appreciate the beauty of the winelands.

Our brief was clear: keep the planning simple; instead of being too exotic, the food needed to be delicious and plentiful, and rather than an extravagant décor, the look needed to be simply beautiful with soft touches of pink, green and silver. Small personal touches and crystal chandeliers completed the sophisticated chic.

We felt this was a wedding with real soul. The food was hearty and the atmosphere infectious. The reception terrace sparkled with fairy lights that dropped down to the ground and tables adorned with vintage silver candelabra lamps and soft, romantic flower arrangements in eclectic containers.

The bride overlooked no detail! There was a specially baked cake for a friend who had her birthday on the same day, and a hand made biscuit with personalised message on each guest’s place setting. The DJ ended the night off appropriately with a set of have-to-dance-to songs, and those who stayed on the estate were treated to a blissful breakfast the next morning. Our team and Fran & Paul agree – this celebration was a magical joyous affair!

Photographer: Christine Meintjes

In a Nutshell

When & Where: Franschhoek Winelands, January 2010

The Look: A fairytale lush with classical beauty and bold characters

Guest List: 120 mostly local family and friends

Take our word: Reinventing the wheel is not always necessary. Go with what you know and you’ll be amazed by how fabulous familiarity is.

Tags: Christine Meintjes, Grey, Pink, Real Life Wedding, Romance, Winelands Wedding