Why we love Country Weddings in Swellendam

Unlike a city wedding, guests are able to escape their own lives and re-connect, both with themselves and their ‘people’.  At Schoone Oordt, wedding parties can spend time before and after the ceremony exploring Swellendam’s restaurants and coffee shops, unwinding on the river – or treating themselves to a pamper at the Rain Forest Spa.

Schoone Oordt, for over a century, has been backdrop to numerous romantic and love-filled events and we feel that we are continuing this legacy by co-creating magical moments with our brides and grooms.  As hosts, we feel so honoured to be invited to be a part of these precious times.

The first anniversary of one particularly magical story has just been marked. Maxine and Francois were married at our small hotel in October last year, with an elegant garden party to celebrate the occasion.  The wedding began with a loving ceremony overlooking the pool, then merged into a picnic-style high tea on the lawn with personalised picnic baskets and kikois.  Vintage lawn games kept both children and older guests enthralled.  Light music tinkled in the background amidst laughter and heartwarming speeches.

An exquisite long table with twinkling fairy lights was set up under the trees for the wedding party to progress into an authentic, but sophisticated South African Braai for dinner…  Unfortunately, the weather didn’t quite play along, so we happily moved the long table into our light and airy Conservatory for an evening of dancing, love and much conversation and laughter.

My Pretty Vintage helped realise Max & Frankie’s glamorous 1920’s theme, which transformed the hotel into something reminiscent of Downton Abbey.  They were amazing to work with and we highly recommend them.  The Wedding Cake from The Cupcake Tarts added to the many savoury and sweet treats created   by our own Schoone Oordt kitchen.  These beautiful pictures were made by our beautiful Bruce Geils, based here in Swellendam.  A truly talented gent.

As in true Schoone Oordt style, our brides and grooms become our friends, if they are not already close to our heart.  Max & I have walked a long road together and we couldn’t be happier that she has finally found Frankie.  Frankie is the ultimate gentleman, fiercely dedicated to Max, who is an extraordinary woman in every way. Their fairy tale is not a story without challenges but their love has truly conquered all.

Dear Max & Frankie had this to say about their day:

The day (weekend!) was a truly, truly special time of deep joy and celebration for us.  This was perfectly complemented by your superb venue which provided a truly beautiful and luxurious setting for our vintage, 1920’s style wedding. Thank you Alison, Richard, Sonette, Wander, Fidiney and the entire Schoone Oordt Family for your passion and love which could be felt throughout the weekend.

Max and Frankie, thank you for the privilege of letting us take care of you and your guests on your enchanted wedding weekend.  More happy memories settle into Schoone Oordt as another beautiful country wedding in Swellendam is added to our album.