Stylish MODERN TROPICAL NEUTRALS WEDDING at The Venue Fontana featured on Ruffled
Tanielle and Alvin’s wedding at The Venue Fontana was truly one to remember! It was filled with statement dried floral arrangements and modern tropical details, with a dash of sophisticated black tie glamour that was a perfect reflection of the couple and their fun, stylish personalities. From the moment we met them I knew we would be able to create something special for their big day, and with one of our fave KZN wedding venues as an inspirational backdrop, we got to work. The final result was beautifully layered, a glorious meeting between natural, organic textures, neutral tones, and minimalist modern shapes and finishes. It was unique, luxurious and beautiful – and filled with so many heartfelt moments too, from Tanielle’s mother holding back tears as she handed her bouquet to a proper Hollywood-style first kiss! We were honoured to have this wedding at The Venue Fontana featured on top wedding blog, Ruffled – you can see the full feature here.
We’ve been lucky enough to plan several weddings and shoots at The Venue Fontana and we knew it would be the perfect space to host Tanielle and Alvin’s wedding. Located in Umkomaas on the KZN South Coast, this family-owned farm venue has a unique rustic-meets-elegant-industrial style and spectacular Indian Ocean views, as well as a choice of fabulous ceremony locations. The converted tractor barn reception area has large sliding wooden doors, cement walls, and high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, and can hold up to 180 guests.
We decided to have an outdoor ceremony overlooking the Umkomaas River. Guests were seated on wooden pallet benches topped white cushions. The main focal point was the ceremony archway that our super talented floral designer Rowena created, using dried tropical greenery, pampas grass, and white anthurium. I especially loved how this composition was reflected in the bridal party’s bouquets. The bride carried a gorgeously boho combination of dried grasses and foliage with pillowy white peonies, while the bridesmaids had modern palm and white anthurium ‘fans’. Following an emotional exchange of vows, the couple and their crew had a portraits session in the nearby coastal forest. You can just see all the love in the photos!
For the indoor reception, we wanted to highlight the architectural features of the tractor barn at The Venue Fontana, as well as our contemporary take on a classic monochrome palette that we called ‘tropical neutrals’. Earthy elements were layered with sleek modern touches to achieve this look. For example, the long, raw wood tables were laid with chic black cutlery and smoky drinking glasses. At each setting, a woven grass placemat was topped with a simple white napkin and menu, which allowed the intricate table arrangements of pampas, dried folage, white roses, and black anthurium to really stand out. Black floating candles in glass vases of different heights were also placed along the tables. Hanging from above were artful arrangements of branches and café lights, as well as wooden calligraphy table numbers. The stationery was deliberately simple and understated, with touches here and there of romantic modern calligraphy to soften the modern style. This included tiny black name cards that were placed at each setting.
Looking to plan your own luxury wedding at The Venue Fontana or one of KZN’s other amazing venues? Find out more about Oh Happy Day and our services here.
Photography: Bright Girl Photography
Design, Planning, Coordination and Styling: Oh Happy Day
Venue: The Venue Fontana
