South Africa's Favorite Wedding Venues

It is that time of the year.  The new Wedding season is upon us, and this also means that with the all the wedding ideas, inspirations and photos popping up, newly engaged couples will be feeling more excited than an entire kaleidoscope of butterflies fluttering away in their stomachs. 

I have always seen South Africa as a hidden gem in terms of destination venue locations, there is just so much potential. We are spoiled with different backdrops to choose from which makes the choices endless - no wonder we are referred to as the World in one Country.  Below I’ve rounded up my favourite venues for each scenery or backdrop that South Africa has to offer.

If a beautifully styled African bush wedding you are after, Monate Game Lodge ticks off all the right boxes.  Say “I do” in a beautiful natural cave, take breathtaking pictures at sunset under the Marula tree in the savannah plains and dine under the African stars.   What more do you need?

With its amazing view of Sandton, this hip, trendy and oh-so-urban rooftop venue is any city lovers dream.  Be transported to another world with urban sheek décor and style as well as an incredible fusion of old meets exotic. Katy’s Palace Bar, with a lot of open space, ensures your wedding will leave no room for disappointment.

If your heart is yearning for a romantic beach wedding, then Strandkombuisis the stop for you.   With its open-aired restaurant, you will feel right at home and relaxed.  Either get married on the restaurant deck, beach or golden dunes and dance the night away under the open stretched white Bedouin tent.  You will also be delighted with the best West Coast Seafood prepared on the open fire.  Situated on a 16-mile long beach in the West Coast, Strandkombuis offers you beachfront views, golden sunsets and saltpan at the back, you are in beach wedding heaven.

If you are looking for a country venue that is edgy yet rustic, then you just have to see how amazing Cabbage & Rose really is.  I am having visions of serving fun, quirky and colourful arrival drinks at either the unique garden house or glass inspired chapel! The reception venue is any romantics dream with its bare brick walls and wooden elements all over, creating a cosy country-living feeling.

Saving the best for last.  Maybe it is because I got my first taste of the Wedding Industry here, but this authentic Cape Dutch Farmyard is the gem you have been waiting for your whole life (or at least the part of your life you have been planning your wedding).  They are most famous for the heart of the farm – the garden - who is the inspiration for all their weddings and functions.  You will see it in the family-style meals, signature drinks to the wedding décor.  All are beautifully coordinated according to the versatile and seasonal garden.  You truly must experience it for yourself to fully appreciate they have to offer.

What I have come to realize is that South Africa is the PERFECT destination wedding country.  At the end of the day choose a venue that is different, with character and a great atmosphere – a venue that will suit your personality, where you can relax and enjoy YOUR special day.