A report by Dana Rebecca Designs Studies, based on surveys of brides since 2010, reveals a startling statistic: 76% have regrets about their wedding day, often due to inadequate planning. This insight presents a striking contrast to the weddings of yesteryear and the more cookie-cutter affairs of our grandparents and even our parents’ generations. Extended family members and friends typically handled most aspects and as for hiring a career wedding planner? Unheard of until the early 2000s.
According to Onwaba Gonyora, Director at Brahman Hills, an award-winning, destination wedding venue in the KZN Midlands, 21st-century weddings have evolved considerably. Many couples are marrying later and often fund their own or contribute significantly to their nuptials. This allows for greater personalisation and allows modern couples to authentically reflect their individuality and unique style. Part of this trend involves destination weddings, which have become increasingly popular among those seeking unique, intimate experiences.
But when it comes to the planning of your special day, where do you start? “The excitement of creating a dream wedding can quickly become stressful,” says Gonyora who has played a pivotal role in turning hundreds of couples’ dream days into reality for over a decade. “Planning is critical. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand event, meticulous planning is key to ensuring a day filled with the perfect blend of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories shared with those who matter most.”
Gonyora shares her top six wedding planning tips:
1. Start with the venue: The Knot, a leading wedding online marketplace, surveyed nearly 10,000 couples who married in 2023 and found that 75% of couples surveyed, ranked guest experience as their top priority. So, choosing a venue that matches your vision and budget, and ensures guests are well cared for is crucial for creating an enjoyable reception. Remember that your venue should be able to accommodate various weather conditions and offer beautiful photo settings.
For example, Brahman Hills, located in the stunning Blue Crane Nature Reserve, offers two wedding venues designed for all-weather romance. While one boasts internationally award-winning gardens, the other provides a backdrop of enchanting rolling hills, both perfect for ensuring captivating photos.
2. Secure a date: Most couples have a preferred month, but the exact date often hinges on venue availability. If you’ve set your sights on a popular venue like Brahman Hills and can’t secure a Saturday or Sunday in the month of your choice, consider opting for a weekday or public holiday. You are not only more likely to secure your desired month, but it often comes with discounted rates too.
3. Focus on what matters most to you: Few people have unlimited budgets, so prioritise what matters most to you as a couple – whether it’s the venue, the photographs, the dress, custom vows, or cherished traditions. This approach ensures your wedding day truly reflects your desires and unique love story.
4. Hire a Wedding Planner: Wedding planners provide guidance and ease the load by managing logistics and vendors and ensuring a smooth and seamless event on the day. This is where a destination wedding can be advantageous as some places like Brahman Hills provide specialised teams to handle these details.
5. Food: Good food doesn’t make a wedding, but bad food can leave a bad taste in your guests’ mouths. The quality of the food, whether simple or extravagant, is crucial to your guests’ comfort and the day’s success. Therefore, ensure your chosen venue or caterers have a great reputation.
6. Vendor selection: 76% of respondents to The Knot survey followed wedding vendors on social media after their engagement. Ensure you entrust your wedding to experienced professionals who understand every aspect of creating a flawless event. This includes DJs, florists, photographers, makeup artists and cake designers. Because with the right support, a stress-free celebration is possible.
“Your wedding should be the ultimate celebration of your love story and a day to create beautiful, unforgettable memories, free of regrets. And with excellent planning and the perfect venue, you can. After all, you deserve nothing less than perfection,” concludes Gonyora.
To discuss your dream day with a wedding coordinator or book a tour at Brahman Hills, email: weddings@brahmanhills.co.za or call 033 266 6965. To view our offerings, go to: https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/weddings