I always ask my brides and grooms if there were any details of their weddings that were proudly South African (after all, SBB is all about bringing you the latest inspiration with an African twist!) but when it came to Brenna & Tom, the feeling of being out in the African bushveld was such an integral part of their big day that it couldn't be boiled down to a few details (although they had those too, from proteas to enamel mugs and braai canapes, even Amarula ice cream for dessert!) They were married on the banks of a river on a Lowveld farm, with crocs and hippos in close attendance, and their guests enjoyed traditional G&T sundowners before the reception, taking in the glorious scenery before dancing the night away under the stars. It was a fitting celebration for a down to earth couple, and they decorated it simply but beautifully, with pretty rustic touches and the most gorgeous (and delectable-looking) naked cake. Kim Tracey was on the scene, and took these absolutely lovely pics!

Advice for Future Brides & Grooms
This is the most valuable piece of advice I can give (the thing that kept me cool and collected): Keep it simple if simple is your style or go all out if that's what you enjoy - as long as everything you do suits you. No one can see the exact vision you have in your head and none of your guests will notice what's missing or what wasn't set up the exact way you wanted it, so let it go and just enjoy. Everyone says it, but it's so true - before you know it your big day has come and gone!
I think the other advice I would give is spend time with your friends and family and with your partner in the days leading up to your wedding - don't get caught up in admin or wedding stuff. Try to make a week long wedding and have a few gatherings leading up to your wedding day and even have a gathering the day after, at least that way you get to spend time with everyone instead of rushing around on your wedding day trying to do your rounds and hardly having a moment to just enjoy and let your hair down with your new husband. I have seen how some people tend to get so caught up in the running and process of things in the few days leading up to the wedding - it should be a fun time, so make sure you enjoy it. At the end of it all - if you arrive at your wedding and the person of your dreams is there to marry you, you will have the best day of your life and that's what really matters.

You can see more from this wedding on Kim Tracey's blog.

SERVICE PROVIDERS
Venue: Private farm | Catering: Jason from The Food Fundi | Photography: Kim Tracey | Stationery: BrennaBales Photography & Design | Cake: Natalie from Gourmet Gurus | Bride's dress: Wedding Bells (Umhlanga) | Bride's accessories: Patrick Mavros | Hair & makeup: Marina & Heather from Hairtech | Bridesmaids' dresses: Jacoba Clothing, Bride & Co | Bridesmaids' accessories: Dear Rae | Groom's attire: Old Khaki, Rogue | Hiring: Umbali Events | Marriage officer: Johan Van Rensburg