Amber and Gareth’s wedding was particularly special to me. Amber is a long time friend from high school and I was honored to be a part of her special day. Amber and Gareth tied the knot at Suikerbossie Restaurant in Hout Bay on a perfect, sunny Saturday. Gareth got ready for the wedding on the premises while Amber was at Chapmans Peak Hotel.

Francis Gersbach was my second shooter for the day. He captured some beautiful imagery as Gareth got ready. I was with the ladies as they steamed dresses, helped with hair and makeup and enjoyed the morning with an amazing view!

Before I left to meet Amber at her bridal suite, Gareth delivered a gift that I had to give her upon arrival. A huge bunch of red roses, a bracelet and a special card – which made for lovely photos as a surprised Amber read the note and put on the bracelet with tears in her eyes. It’s moments like these that make me thoroughly enjoy shooting weddings, capturing real moments.

The girls made lovely vests for the morning of the wedding. As soon as hair and makeup was complete, we snapped a few pics of the girls and then it was time to put on Amber’s wedding dress. Until now, most brides don’t feel as if it is their wedding day just yet – but as soon as they have their wedding dress on, it all becomes a reality and the excitement sets in! Amber’s bridesmaids were absolutely amazing. She didn’t have to worry about a thing! While she had her makeup and hair done, they lined up all their shoes and hung the dresses to make sure everything was photo-ready. They steamed her veil, prepped the bouquets and made sure Amber was hydrated and ate – they really were a dream team, well done ladies! Once everyone was dressed and ready we took some time to take photos of Amber as she waited for her Father to collect her. I love this time of the day as the bride is able to have some peace and quiet and really take in the moment the day that lies before her.

The ceremony was held at Suikerbossie with Hout Bay as the backdrop. The couple said their “I do’s” while the guests watched and became a part of their special memory. Amber and Gareth asked all of their guests to pack away their phones and cameras and leave the capturing up to the professionals – it was such a  pleasure photographing their ceremony without shooting around dslr cameras and photographing guests looking through their screens – THANK YOU Amber and Gareth.

The couple signed the registry, had their group photos, mingled and then it was time for my absolute favourite part – the couples shoot! This is a time when you can get away from the wedding frenzy, have a glass of bubbles and celebrate your marriage as a couple – I am simply there to capture that moment and add a few creative ideas. Off we went, up the mountain just before the sunset…

(How awesome is this photobomb by the bride?! )

We arrived back to the venue and proceeded with the speeches, bouquet and garter toss, cake cutting and dancing!

Thank you, Amber and Gareth, for allowing me to capture your special day. A huge thank you to Francis for being my second shooter and capturing the day alongside me.

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Tegan