Monks Media

Our first official collaboration with Gold’n Thread Consulting was the opening of the new L’Atelier Paris jewelry store at the Platinum Walk at Oceans Mall, Umhlanga.

The first of its kind on the South African east coast, the store features a dazzling array of watches and jewelry from prestigious French brands including Breitling, Cartier, Fred, Le Page, Longines, Messika, and Tag Heuer.

A chance for the VIP guest list to browse the store, attendees were treat to Afro-French inspired canapé menu from chef extraordinary Carissa and her team at Bleu Berri Catering, paired with the international award-winning Laurent-Perrier Champagne.

Special thanks to Matt Davies and Tim Lewis for setting the scene with their French Riviera inspired setlist.

Photography by Far South Media.

For the second session of the Standard Bank Professional Banking Event Series we were delighted to host guests from the medical field with the illustrious Dr. Sandile Tshabalala serving as guest speaker for the evening. 

Hosted at the iconic Pencil Club at Umhlanga Arch, guests were treated to an array of activities, including a 360-degree Photo Booth, professional LinkedIn portraits, a fabulous menu and cocktail pairing curtesy of Inverroche Gin, and luxury leather gifts and prizes by Jeckyll and Hide. 

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Photography and videography by Meva Media.

I have been fortunate to know and work with Brogan for several years through her signage business The Glow Co. Whenever I want something custom made for a project, Brogan is my first point of call! Not only does she welcome a challenge, but she is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and get her hands dirty, and her experience and advice along that way as become invaluable to my business.

Although Brogan and I have known each other for some time professionally, it was through the process of planning her wedding that I really began to get to know her, Buck, and their families – each of whom were incredibly kind to share their Jehovah’s Witness faith with me as we sat for many hours discussing every detail about their special day. One such detail came from a discussion around the joy (and if I am honest, often ridiculed) of spreading the good news of the Jehovah’s Witness faith to those around them. This conversation reminded me of a Christian children’s song that I used to have on an old cassette tape, with lyrics to the tune of ‘Extra! Extra! Read all about it, it’s good news,’ and thus we decided to pay homage to the message in the form of the newspaper style wedding program, which has coincidently become a popular wedding trend again this year.

Over the past 16 years, I have been incredibly honoured and privileged to plan and witness innumerable personal celebration events, those to whom I have a personal connection always tugging on my heart stings a little more and hold a special place in your memory for years to come; nevertheless, something about this wedding was different. The love and joy that beamed from every guest in attendance was palpable and felt so genuine and pure that it had to be touched by the Divine.

This joy and love was captured by the incomparable Maresha Lee Photography, whom I had heard so much about and ogled at her enigmatic photos for countless hours, that by the time we finally met she already felt like an old friend. To say I am a fan is an understatement! Her artistry, unique perspective, and composition has brought a fresh dimension that blurs the lines between art, fashion, and ‘traditional’ wedding photography; and I feel her portraits have captured the essence of a vivacious couple on the threshold of one of life’s most remarkable adventures.

Special thanks to the entire teams at The Doolhof Hotel and Mila Restaurant in Wellington, Western Cape for your incredible catering and impeccable hosipitality that is only matched by the awe-inspiring views. Lastly, thank you Brogan for never taking no for an answer in any sphere of your life, and to you and your beautiful family for opening your hearts and sharing your faith and love with me.

Photography by Maresha Lee Photography.

We love collaborating the brands that are constantly pushing boundaries and working towards tangible change in this world.

Thank you to Glenlivet SA for inviting us to be a part of their #BreakTheStereotype campaign with a #WomensMonth event honouring a group of ladies that are not only making waves within their careers and communities, but also challenging preconceived social norms.

Each lady was gifted with a new pair of Puma shoes to elevate their outfits and for the #SuitsAndSneakers dress code, and were treated to the latest eyewear fashion trends compliments of The Look SA.

Our beautiful sensory tablescape was inspired by the tasting notes in the Glenlivet 12 Year Old and Founder’s Reserve, highlighting flavours of zesty orange, toffee apple, pineapple with hints of French vanilla pear compliments of the custom candles from Ash Decor.

The new Steak & Oyster not only served as the perfect setting for the classic and traditional atmosphere we wanted to create, but also a true collaborator for a menu pairing that was a true taste sensation. 

Finally the ladies were treated to hand-painted chocolate pearls from Cocoa Africa, that once again paired perfectly with the Scottish whisky taste notes. 

Photography by Lindt Photography.

Melissa and Zdravko had just one request, an intimate wedding for family and friends at home - which also happened to be a construction site. 

With the ultimate list of wedding industry suppliers, we transformed this incredible blank canvas into a true fairytale setting fit for royalty. 

Special thanks to the insanely talented Heike and her team from Fleur le Cordeur , as well as Susan and Cathy from Weddings With Wow - it was such a pleasure working with you all to make Melissa’s dream day a reality.

Photography and videography by Barclay Studios.

When it comes to innovative marketing campaigns and consumer engagement activations, no one does it quite like Glenlivet SA; so naturally, we relished the chance to once again to partner with the team from Pernod Ricard SA to bring their #GlenlivetSensorialEventSeries to life!

Hosted by the magnanimous Sinako ‘Snakes’ Dunywa , the events were held at key on-trade establishments throughout KZN, including Big Fish Umhlanga, Butlers Hillcrest, Chef’s Table, and Fire & Vine Pietermaritzburg.

Our brief was to create a sumptuous tablescape that would delight the VIP guests with a sensory overload.

Highlighting the various tasting notes across the Glenlivet collection, we crafted the decor with an assortment of fresh fruit, vanilla and malt scented candles, textured napkins, and floral arrangements mixed with natural botanicals - curtesy of our green-fingered floral magician Simply Bliss.

Our favourite element came in the form of a printed sugar biscuit with a custom Spotify wave, that once scanned took the guest to a curated #SensorialEventSeries playlist of local and international artists - completed with the sounds of the Scottish Highlands to pay tribute to the brand’s iconic heritage; which were plated alongside some delectable desserts from the various host establishments.

A dazzling array of outfits from By Simone Collection ensured that Mr Sinako and the beautiful brand ambassadors put their best fashion foot forward for some truly spectacular Instagram moments.

Special thanks to all the incredible staff at each of the locations for helping us pull these events together so seamlessly.

Photography by the one and only Lindo from Lindt Photography.

The most glamorous teddy bear’s picnic there ever was in honor of my very dear friend Coral, in anticipation of the arrival of her bundle of joy - Bo Valentine.

With the bubbles flowing and surrounded by loved ones, an incredible afternoon was had by all - not to mention the mouthwatering catering from the Delish Sisters.

Photography by the uber talented Teddi Van Der Steen from Light Art.

Some of my favourite behind the scenes set design shots and product stills from our Bokehf Fashion Film commercial for Fitch and Leedes, directed by Genna Wae and the shot by the team from JR Film.

From A to Z, and everything in between.

Concept, location, set design, script, direction, and production for Edgars Beauty, powered by Avatar Durban.

Videography by Icily TV.

A fun morning working with the talented team at Parksquare Spar on this aviation themed global taste tour.

I was completely blown away by this gorgeous couple from the moment they walked into their first meeting with me. Apart from their obvious movie-star looks, they treated each other with so much love and respect during the build up to their special day (which can often be overlooked during this sometimes stressful period).

A young, modern couple with traditional values, Derusha and Kishan were eager to shake things up a bit by shifting their color scheme from the usual red to pink. I had no doubt that they were going to blow me away with their majestic outfits but the audible gasps and sighs of their congregation almost made you want to stand up and applaud as they walked down the aisle.

Thank you to Kevin Hsu Photography & Film for these stunning photographs.

We literally jumped at the chance to be a part of the Zimbali Estate Colour Run - a fulfilled morning for the whole family to enjoy and an opportunity for estate homeowners to come together.

At registration each participant received a sugar-free entry pack filled with healthy products from our esteemed brand partners Futurelife, Sunlife Vitamins, and Powerade.

Music from DJ Harry set the mood for an energetic morning, while face painting from the ladies at Fancy Pants Events ensured that everyone was ready for the 5km fun run that lay ahead.

Photography by Riverstone Studio.

With all Covid-19 protocols in place, we were delighted to be a part of taking this national Edgars Beauty event virtual for the first time!

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Photography and videography by Icily TV.

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Photography and videography by Stories by Goya.

Without doubt the most emotional wedding I have ever been to. The tears of joy were flowing from sunrise to sunset, but then again so was the Champagne G.H.MUMM, which might put some of the emotions into perspective.

Reminiscent of the shingle style architecture of the infamous Hamptons, New York; this picturesque family home in Sheffield, KwaZulu Natal was the perfect setting for Andrea and Phillip’s cool and classic wedding celebration – captured by local artist Britt Aboud from Whimsy Ink for the front of the programmes.

With the stark white walls of the home forming the base of our colour palette, we began layering a myriad of natural materials and textures to create a sophisticated décor scheme with just a touch of French bohemia; all accented by tropical florals in green and whites.

I have to say that it makes me incredibly nervous when family and friends step forward during the planning phase to offer their help and services; but I honestly could not have asked for a better team of merry helpers. From the incredible floral displays to the most sumptuous harvest table spread I have seen in years, and everything in between – this was one team effort that definitely delivered the goods to the highest standard!

Another special mention must be made of Ross Charles for his musical and vocal stylings that set the mood for an incredible canapé hour of more champagne and oysters, overlooking a hidden beach with 180-degree views.

Two personal highlights of the day were watching Andrea walking down the sun-kissed aisle in her custom Robyn Roberts Bridal wedding gown; and of course the speeches which ensured there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Like so many couples around the globe, Andrea and Phil may have had to wait a bit longer to celebrate their special day, but in the end I can honestly say it was worth the wait.

An incredible moment of love and light in the midst of the last few tumultuous years.

Photography by AimyLouise Photography.

We were delighted to host the first annual Home & Garden Show at Zimbali Estate Country Club, featuring an assortment of prestigious local north coast businesses, including:

Bean Boet, Blue Bay Outdoor Furniture, Blum, Easylife Kitchens, Explorer Craft Spirits, Freedom Won Batteries, Gulp Smoothies, Hirsch Ballito, Love Laugh Protea, Mayford Seeds, My Basket Shop, Not-A-Chef, Protek, Samsung Ballito, Storm Boutique, Vodacom, and Where’s Octi.

Special thanks to our esteemed brand partner Pam Golding Ballito for sponsoring this event.

Photography by Light Art.

Imagine starting your married life walking and dancing your way through the African bush with these majestic animals.

It doesn’t take much stretch of the imagination to see why Nicola and Dwayne fell in love with Bayete Zulu Game Reserve and the beautiful wildlife they protect.

An intimate affair in a truly magnificent setting. We dined like royalty under the canopy of stars, then danced the night away arm in arm with old and new friends - until the sun kissed the horizon.

Thank you Dean Maber Photography for these magnificent photos.

Dancing in the Digital Jungle at the Beiersdorf 2020 Conference Gala Dinner.

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Photography and videography by The Shank Tank.

To celebrate the Rugby World Cup 2023 and to show their support for the Springboks, we have transformed the Zimbali Estate Country Club into the ultimate supporter fan park!

The goal is to provide residents with an interactive and entertaining experience for the whole family and to enhance the sense of unity amongst the Zimbali Estate community.

Special thanks to our brand partners for this event series: Freedom Won, Diageo, SMG, Huizemark Ballito, and DGB wines.

Photography by Veia Media.

This inspiring web series was created for Standard Bank to celebrate Women’s Month 2020.

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In celebration of Women’s Month, Zimbali Estate welcomed their female residents for a special high tea event. Hosted at the magnificent glass room at the Valley of the Pools restaurant, the ladies were treated to a delectable menu and G.H. Mumm pairing; and while the weather may have been overcast, the women certainly stepped into spring in their stylish, all-white attire – ready for an afternoon of fun and fashion.

The highlight of the afternoon was undoubtedly the informative and interactive presentation from Fay and Megan of Image Insured, who collectively have over 30-years of experience in the image consulting industry and have helped countless women to look and feel their most beautiful.

Downstairs the ladies were spoiled with treatments from Mangwanani African Spa serenaded by the musical stylings of Ballito’s own Graham Hudson, whilst enjoying an afternoon of popup shopping from Seasons Clothing, exquisite jewelry from Happy by Lou, and the latest in designer eyewear from Optical Emporio.

Special thanks to our sponsors Marrow Attorneys and Property Matchmaker Ballito.

Photography by the multi-talented Teddi van der Steen from Light Art.

Earlier this year we had the pleasure of working with the inspirational team from Beiersdorf SA on their annual conference at the versatile Fairmont Zimbali Hotel.

The theme for this year’s conference was Bigger, Better, Faster, Together - with each of these headed up by a different internal department and hosted in their own conference room.

Thank you to Matriarch Marketing for having me on board for this incredible event and to the Shank Tank for the wonderful photography.

Data and analytics can often be tedious and at times mind boggling for many of us, but when your team presents this information within the context of Formula One - then you know you are in for a win!

Couple this with some insane performance incentives and true sense of company culture, and it is easy to understand why Beiersdorf South Africa are miles ahead of their competitors.

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Photography and videography by The Shank Tank.

Our first styled shoot in the “An Ode to Yesteryear” series highlights two iconic sites located within the Durban CBD – the Old Fort Chapel and the Durban Manor Hotel. While today these venues are utilized as a church and a hotel respectively, it is of value to us to understand their history to gain a full appreciation of what they have become today.

Under the command of Captain Thomas Smith, a force of 260 men was sent by the British Government in response to Boer plans to resettle Natal’s population. This military contingent reached the D’Urban Bay on 4 May 1842 and pitched camp on the site now occupied by the Old Fort. After the siege of 1842, a permanent fort was built on the site and a permanent British garrison was based there. All existing structures in the Fort were demolished and replaced by more substantial buildings which now form the basis of the present complex.

It remained occupied by imperial troops until 1885 when the Old Fort was handed over to the Durban Light Infantry, its magazine was converted into a chapel and the inner courtyard was transformed into a garden. The military cemetery, where the tombs of men who lost their lives during the siege of 1842 are located, forms part of this complex. It was declared a National Monument on 6 April 1936.

Today, the quaint Old Fort Chapel serves as the perfect setting for a romantic and intimate ceremony, and its lush gardens provide a multitude of locations for some seriously beautiful family and creative couple photos.

Concept, Coordination, & Styling - Darryl Monks

Hair & Makeup - Wadene Ngubane, Nixon Makeup

Jewelry - Gold Club Studio

Photography - Stories by GoyaModel - Jess Ellis

Venue - Old Fort Chapel

Wedding Gown - Sadie Bosworth Atelier

With the world slowly but surely returning to our new normal, we are excited to once again be hard at work developing some incredible physical events and team building activities for our corporate clients. 

Our strategy has always been to start from a point of collaboration, learning about our clients - assessing where they have been and where they would like to go. 

Powered by the amazing team at Matriarch Marketing.

Photography by The Shank Tank.

Getting married during a pandemic is certainly not for the faint hearted. Originally due to be married at Crystal Barn in the Midlands in 2020, getting Jess and Paul to the altar was certainly no easy feat. From venue, suppliers, and multiple date changes, to the added stress of international travel restrictions, the date was finally set for April 2022 at the magnificent Grand Exotic in Sheffield.

Designed and built by Sarah Owen, who also crafted Crystal Barn, this stunning venue is an eclectic and oriental-inspired. Adorned with imported Balinese doorways and arches, complimented by a rich tapestry of antiques and crystal chandeliers – the perfect canvas for Jess and Paul to splash their bold personalities all over.

When we dream in colour, we dream in the fantasy gardens created by Neil Lessick from Simply Bliss Flower Sensorium. With Jess’ favourite strelitzias as our starting point, the wild, tropical florals brought the room, and our dreams to life! If you’re going for bold, go for gold! An inspiration perfectly achieved with an assorted décor design of modern and antique, traditional and playful, silver and (of course) gold; all of which was highlighted by an array of coloured candles and LED lights that changed the colour scheme throughout the course of the evening.

Starting with the sumptuous Ardmore inspired harvest table, guests were treated to a mouthwatering menu you from award-winning chef Jacqui Rey from Food Matters. Jacqui’s meticulous presentation ensured that every morsel was as much a feast for the eyes as for the stomach. The menu was topped off with an architectural masterpiece by baker to the stars Nicole Momogos, whose 4-tier confection was bejeweled with hidden lights that illuminated the cake from within the white fondant icing.

The best celebrations are filled with magical moments that are burned into our hearts and minds for years to come, and this celebration was filled with them. From Jess’ star-powered limousine entrance and the always popular photo booth from Photobooth Lab, our catch-phrase of ‘make it a moment’ was capped off by the hundreds of clear helium balloons that were handed out to guests to release during the first dance and covered the roof in a canopy of glittering lights.

A rare delight to have a bride who embodies and embraces colour (and dare I say it) a love for all things OTT; Jess exceeded all expectations with her breathtaking entrance in her custom crystal and silver thread embellished ballgown, and later a vintage art deco dress that ensured Jess and Paul could dance the night away with all the furor of the 1920s over 100 years later. In this case, more was definitely more!

Photography and videography by The Shank Tank.

In June 1854 the first D’Urban Club was formed by 20 influential members of the community at the time. Named after the Governor of the Cape Colony, the club was to be used as a reading and newsroom, as well as for the playing of chess and billiards. The initial clubhouse, built on land purchased for £15, was made of wood and thatch. Later a more permanent building was commissioned and upon completion in 1863 was described by the Natal Mercury as “the finest building in town”.

Plans for the present clubhouse were drawn up in 1898 but delayed due to the Second Boer War. Construction then began in October 1900 and finally completed in January 1904. Built-in grand Edwardian style, architectural and decorative features include capitals, arches, pilasters, and moldings. In 1939 a larger dining suite, a new bar in the courtyard, and 23 bedrooms were added to the existing club.

There have been many additions and renovations over the past few decades and after the turn of the millennium, the clubhouse was sold and converted to the Durban Manor Hotel, while the Durban Club has retained a 99-year lease for part of the building and continues to thrive.

Today, the antique-filled hotel is the perfect location for the more discerning bride and groom looking for a little more style and elegance (not to mention history) than some of their current contemporaries. The rich architectural details, original solid wood staircase, and entrance doors are a photographer’s dream – a picture-perfect backdrop for today’s urban-chic couple to celebrate the start of their lives together and add their own thread to Durban’s rich tapestry and history.

Champagne - G.H Mumm

Decor, Styling, and Coordination - Darryl Monks

Photography, Videography, and Stationery - Stories by Goya

Venue - Durban Manor Hotel & Conference Centre

Wedding Cake - Roxi Wardman

The Matriarch Conference 2019, hosted at the Salt Rock Hotel, was two action-packed days of motivational speakers, strategy sessions and team building activities.

Photography by the Shank Tank.

This wedding had it all. Seriously, I would have loved to have been a guest at this one. From the most touching ceremony to the bottomless champagne towers, decadent food by Jacqui Rey and her team at food Matters, and amazing entertainment - no detail was too big or small for Dale and Josh.

Yes they wanted all the usual boxes ticked, but their main concern was to spoil their family and friends, to say thank you for all the love and support they had received over the years - and their beaming faces say it all.

Dale and Josh come from two extremely close and loving families and they treat their friends like family too. It wasn’t her own dress that she Dale was dying to tell me about in our meetings, but rather her bridesmaids! She wanted her girls to look and feel spectacular, not like and after thought. Dale and her girls didn’t disappoint!

A special mention must go to Deidre Love from Ballito Country Flowers for your incredible florals literally brought Maroupi Wedding Venue to life!

Derryn from Derryn Schmidt Photography knocked this one out of the park - thank you for the magnificent photographs.

There’s nothing quite like setting the scene with a little drama before a big event, which is exactly what we did for the team at Beiersdorf SA earlier this year before the annual conference.

In addition to revealing the Bigger, Better, Faster, Together theme for this year’s conference, the valued employees were guided through their new company conference app, treated to a stunning Samsung gift and then collected their welcome packs and a delicious breakfast smoothie to kick start their day.

Photography by The Shank Tank.

After a tumultuous year of planning a wedding during Covid (and all the uncertainty that goes with it), this group of ladies were beyond excited to finally have something to look forward to – a surprise kitchen tea to spoil our dearest bride-to be Andrea.

Nestled in the amazing landscaped gardens of the colourful Grand Exotic in Sheffield, the ladies were treated to the most delicious brunch buffet - and let’s not forget the fountains of champagne.

A very special thank you to Sarah, Kurt, and all the staff at the Grand Exotic for making us all feel so welcome; and of course the uber talented Bron Veale from Vanilla Photography for capturing all the fun and laughter.

The first session of the Standard Bank Professional Banking Event Series was hosted at the prestigious Pencil Club, with exceptional structural engineer Suvarna Maharaj from Arup Group serving as guest speaker for the evening.

In addition to Suvarna’s inspirational speech about her work on the Umhlanga Arch project, guests were treated to an array of activities, including a 360-degree Photo Booth, professional LinkedIn portraits, a fabulous menu and champagne pairing curtesy of GH Mumm and award-winning mixologist Lamoure Brenton, as well as luxury leather gifts and prizes by Jeckyll and Hide.

The sensational Mthobisi Mthala on the baby grand piano and Durban’s finest DJ Jay Jubs on decks, ensured that the scene was set for an elegant evening for the invited young professional engineers to #TasteTomorrow.

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Photography and videography by Meva Media.

When Tyla and Devin first started planning their wedding celebration, we were all off to Mozambique; but like many engaged couples over the past two years, Covid had other plans. Not wanting to take the risk of postponement that so many had endured due to international travel restrictions, we decided to look closer to home. With its panoramic ocean views, surrounded by palm trees – the Salt Rock Hotel Beach Bar was the quintessential tropical setting.

A fashion designer and stylist by trade, we knew that Tyla was going to blow us away with her wedding outfit, and boy oh boy did she deliver; accompanied by her gorgeous bridesmaids – all in custom Taylor Hamilton Clothing. Not to be outdone by the ladies, Devin and his plethora of groomsmen certainly cleaned up well with for the occasion, each sporting their classic Vans sneakers that ensured many dangerous moves on the dance floor well into the night.

After the emotional yet informal ceremony, guests were treated to the cool reggae sounds of the Meditators Band and a mouth-watering menu of food and drinks from a selection of food trucks and bubble and ice-cream bars - not to forget countless shots of the infamous Umhlanga Wine Shooters.

With furniture and décor in a variety of shades, textures, and fabrics to match the modern yet classic coastal style; our goal was to highlight the natural beauty of the location and festival atmosphere that was so important to Tyla and Devin. As dusk fell, the incredible lighting display lit up the palm trees and transformed the entire venue into a scene straight out of Miami; guests dancing the night away under a canopy of lights.

An incredible day for a couple very near and dear to my heart! I cannot wait to see what the future has instore for these high school sweethearts and their next adventure as a family!

Photography by Wesley Lewis.

I have been lucky to call Matt, Jess, and the whole Downey family friends for many years, and was delighted to be asked to help plan and execute their special day. Having had a few false starts in Covid, they eventually decided to host their intimate celebration at Matthew’s family home – a trend from the covid years that I am glad is here to stay.

No strangers to entertaining in this magnificent setting, we knew we had to bring in the best of the best for the catering to elevate things to the next level, and who better than world renowned chef extraordinaire Justine Smith from Justine Lindsay Catering, whose delectable harvest table and canape-style catering had the room filled with audible sighs of delight – not to mention the array of mouthwatering pizzas from Bjorn and the guys from Pizza Bae.

Special thanks once again to Neil and his team from Simply Bliss for the spectacular florals that transformed lifted the décor and atmosphere to new heights.

Photography and videography by Beyond Measure.

Every couple dreams of blue skies and sunshine for their wedding; but honestly, if you are getting married in the Midlands there is nothing better than a little mist on your wedding day. Luckily, Cath and Riaan had both.

A truly extraordinary day for the most humble and happy couple I have yet to meet.

Photography by Stories by Goya.

If the old adage that rain on your wedding day brings good luck, then Samantha and Glynn have bought a winning lotto ticket to an eternity of wedded bliss!

Tucked away on their family farm in Empangeni, Sam’s father and his team of merry men created a whimsical maze through the sugarcane fields to an awe-inspiring amphitheatre for the ceremony.

Statuesque Sam was a vision in her Julia Ferrandi Bridal gown, with the unexpected need of her gum boots actually highlighting her industrious and adventurous side. However, the most beautiful accessory of them all was the beaming smiles that never left her and Glynn’s faces.

A true community collaboration, special thanks must go to all the family and friends who worked so hard to make everything as perfect as can be on a farm in the midst of a torrential downpour. And of course, the Delish Sisters for the most incredible harvest table spread and desserts, and Shoots and Leaves for the mouth-watering sharing platters for the reception.

I am so fortunate that my job affords me the opportunity to meet so many people from various walks of life, but Sam and Glynn’s parents touched my heart and left a mark on me - perhaps because they reminded me so much of my own family. Their willingness to roll their sleeves up to get the job done, and the numerous personal touches of homemade craft beer, passion cordial and floristry gave this wedding celebration a unique, magical touch - love.

Photography by Dean Maber Photography.

The second styled shoot in the “An Ode to Yesteryear” series, continues by shinning a light on another of the Durban CBD’s most sacred of churches – the Emmanuel Catholic Cathedral.

As is the case with many historical buildings of significant age, the cathedral has constantly evolved throughout the years; with the beautiful, round stained-glass windows and iconic bell tower having been repurposed from the old St. Josephs Church. Initially completed in 1903, it soon was recognized as the Heart of Durban amongst the locals. Over time, the cathedral underwent many a reformation with the installation of the several of the archetypal features that this magnificent building is famous for today. These include the sacred Stations of the Cross in 1904, the spectacular organ in 1912, and the holy Chapel of Our Lady in 1928 for the jubilee consecration of Bishop Delalle.

With its awe-inspiring vaulted ceiling, stone gothic arches, and undeniable religious significance; the cathedral provided the ideal contrast to the Jeanelle l’Amour Bridal gown by local designer-to-the-stars, Casey Jeanne. Modeled by Durban’s own Sophia Sibanda, who herself has undertaken her own rebirth in recent years through her transition as an African transgendered woman and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, who dazzled us with her sheer beauty, elegance, and intelligence.

The marriage of two people and their commitment to love and honour one another is one of life’s most cherished gifts – irrespective of cultural, religious, or social prejudices. It is about finding and sharing love with a partner, supported and guides by faith, family, and friends. It is about finding your place of comfort and safety; a querencia if you will - a place from which one’s strength is drawn, where one feels truly at home. A place where you are your most authentic self.

Concept, Coordination, & Styling - Event Architecture

Makeup - Wadene Ngubane, Nixon Makeup

Model - Sophia Sibanda

Photography - Derryn Schmidt Photography

Venue - Emmanuel Cathedral, Durban

Wedding Dress - Jeannelle L’Amour Bridal

The Glades Farm was the perfect canvas for Carlee and Clinton's rustic, elegant wedding celebration.

A lover of flowers, Carlee was excited to do something different for the decor, so we created a hanging garden of pink dyed pennygum sprayed with subtle touches of gold and copper metallics.

There were so many standout decor moments here that it is hard to choose, but my personal favorites have to be the gorgeous round arch completely covered in dyed pennygum and highlighted with metallic tones of yellow and rose gold; and of course, Carlee’s stunning Jeannelle la Amour wedding gown.

Photos by the delightful Nkima Photography.

I have been lucky enough to call Wes and the Johnson family friends since we were both young boys running around the Umlalazi River and Umhlanga Beach causing chaos, so it was an incredibly proud moment to see him standing at the top of the aisle waiting for his beautiful bride and soul mate Elaine.

A true modern day love story, these two have already overcome many of life’s trials and tribulations with the support of their family and friends, and most importantly their love for one another.

Their wedding was a reflection of the bright, zest for life that they share and celebration of the best things yet to come - an intimate family affair over looking the picturesque Indian Ocean.

Photography by the insanely talented Teddi Van Der Steen from Light Art.

Without doubt one of my favourite weddings, but then again when the bride is my cousin, it was always going to be.

By the time Erin and Sandro came to plan their wedding they had been to about twenty of the friend’s weddings since they had started dating, so it was safe to say they had a fair idea of what they did and did not want for the important day.

I remember the first time I drove up to see Sweethome Wedding Venue with them and walking down the massive staircase to the venue below. With so many of their friends married before them, Erin and Sandro were running out of options to find a venue that they could call their own. We all knew it was the place instantly.

Blomme SA showed us all why this mother-daughter team are so revered in the business with their green and white floral designs. However, my favourite touch came in the form of a beautiful, personal letter from Erin to each of the guests.

Special thanks to Jolene and her team from Oh Happy Day for their onsite coordination for the weekend so I could let my hair down with the family.

Photographs by Eileen from Brightgirl Photography.

An honour to work with this innovative company to conceptualize and execute their conference, team build and gala dinner, as well as their new Ellie Award trophies and a special Service Award.

After a day of intense creative brainstorming and forecasting during conference at Durban’s landmark Blue Waters Hotel, the Matriarch Marketing team were treated to a gala dinner where the company’s many shinning stars were awarded for their achievements over the past year.

The Amazing Race Team Build followed the next morning with the team racing around the Durban North Beach on an assortment of bikes and go-carts.

Following a list of clues and tasks, this team build encourages participants to strengthen skills such as communication, delegation and creativity under pressure - a little speed and agility would come in handy too.

I had a great time planning this team build and connecting the clues and locations to points derived from Matriarch’s company conference the previous day; and I was particularly happy to meet local sand artist Michael, who inspired me with his quick wit and creativity.

Photography by Niamh Ashling and videography by Meva Media.

I will never forget the first day I met Nicole and Tyrone - we hit it off right away like long lost friends, and I knew this wedding was going to be the start of a beautiful friendship - until they showed me the location they were looking at for their wedding…

The view from the Zinkwazi launch site at dusk is breathtaking and served as the most beautiful backdrop for Nicole and Ty to say their sacred vows in front of family and friends, accentuated with the most magnificent florals from Lynette Todd. We absolutely loved mixing the rich jewel tones and luxurious fabrics with modern gold accents and earthy terracottas.

A true festival style celebration, a massive shoutout to the teams from Mobile Events Company, Coastal Cone, and Tampanga Rum for the delicious food and keeping the drinks flowing all night.

Special thanks to Jade from Haze Creatives, from the moment you came on board you were an absolute dream to work with and I think the photos speak for themselves.