Oh how I love a winter wedding. Nicholi and Jean-Rae married in South Africa and chose an Italian-inspired, rustic winter wedding theme for their day. Die Stoor in Khotsong, Bothaville, was the setting for this fabulous wedding. This rustic barn was a great blank canvas that allowed the couple to style away to their hearts’ desire.
Nicholi’s stunning dress, an intricate, sheer lace, high necked bodice upon a floaty tulle skirt, fitted their winter wedding perfectly. Her bridesmaids wore beautiful burgundy dresses with cosy wraps, and the little flower girl and pageboy looked so cute!
Cosy Vibe
The styling of this wedding is breathtakingly beautiful, with such a cosy vibe that draws you in. The first thing that caught my eye when I saw these amazing pictures by Michelle Du Toir photography were the fabulous canopies of eucalyptus suspended over the beautiful tablescapes. Eucalyptus makes such a beautiful addition to floral arrangements, but it’s rarely used on its own. Just look at it though! The abundance of this beautiful greenery adorned the tables, scattered with fabulous gold candlesticks, candelabras and gold laser-cut table names of famous Italian cities. Light bulbs and fairy lights suspended from the barn ceiling added a warming, cosy feel.
I love wedding drink stations, and the drink of choice for Nicholi and Jean-Rae’s winter wedding was sherry. They created a delightful Sherry stand where guests could enjoy a schooner of sherry in cosy lounge areas. By all accounts Nicholi and Jean-Rae’s wedding took place on a freezing cold day, so I guess the warm blankets and heaters provided were well-received too!
Awful Weather
You might notice that Michelle took Nicholi and Jean-Rae’s couple pictures at a different location. This is because the weather was unfortunately so awful on their wedding day. It was freezing, the wind and rain weren’t backing down, and the bride’s dress was soaking wet with a ‘mud ombre’ effect at the bottom. So, they decided they would have their couple pictures taken on a different day, and WOW; they are incredible!
This shows that not everything may go to plan on your big day, but there is always a solution, and sometimes it’s for the best!
Photography: Michelle Du Toit
Reception Venue: Die Stoor, Bothaville, South Africa
Couple Shoot Location: Langverwagt, Kuils River, South Africa
Flowers, Decor and Catering: Wilinda Hanekom
Bride’s Dress: Janita Toerien
Bride’s Make-Up and Hair: Cecilia Fourie
Bridesmaids’ Hair: Christel Basson
Invitations: Fleur Design Studio
Place Settings: Kabous Design
Favours and Name Tags: Helen Thiart
