14 August 2008

Nell and Kevin first laid eyes on each other at a social outing during their student days. The attraction was instantaneous and four years later Kevin popped the big question, presenting her with an exquisite self designed engagement ring.

The couple opted for an elegant wedding, steering away from anything formal or impersonal. They found their perfect venue in Ellerman House, Bantry Bay, exclusive, yet inviting, which promised endless views over the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for their sun-filled wedding day, 08 January 2005.

The ceremony took place underneath a rose-roofed gazebo on a petal strewn terrace. Nell exclaimed later that the ceremony was “really something exceptional – everything was breathtaking and the atmosphere was magical.” She recalls that, for her, the highlight of this sacred event was her friend’s interpretation of ‘La Vie en Rose’.

The sound of a festive jazz trio invited guests to where the post-ceremony festivities would begin. Pre-dinner drinks and delicious canapé’s, such as fresh oysters on crushed ice, were served on the terrace, while giving guests a glimpse of the Bedouin tent tops, covering promises of what was to follow…

Inside each tent were long tables covered with white tablecloths and shimmery cream organza overlays. The look was accentuated by the matt gold tiffany chairs, Crystal glasses with ribbon and reed silver cutlery at each setting. Tables were scattered with beautiful glass containers filled with an abundance of pastel coloured roses and hydrangeas. As the evening started, lots of candles were lit to create a soft romantic atmosphere and fairy lights, hugging the trunks of the two palms trees further added to this breathtaking sight.

Guests feasted on warm orange and honey dressed rocket salads with Goat’s cheese and roasted walnuts. This was accompanied by platters of Parma ham, fresh figs, asparagus and parmesan shavings. Guests were delighted by a main course of herb rubbed fillet of beef, accompanied by field mushrooms, fondant potato spinach and a homemade tomato and ginger chutney. Dessert platters bursted with delights such as espresso infused Tiramisu, white and dark chocolate éclair towers and Pavlova of fresh summer berries served with Chantilly Crème.

The dance floor was opened with a sensual tango, Nell transformed her wedding gown and wore a tango skirt (specially made for the event), which she slipped on right before the dance. A four piece rock band and a live funky jazz band provided endless entertainment. From midnight Kayembe Promotions took the party to the wee hours of the morning.

Nell shared the best part of it all: “to give everybody, not just the two of us, the opportunity to celebrate love, life, family and friendship. Thank you Aleit, with you, nothing was impossible, even if it meant organising cranes to lower equipment over the roof of Ellerman house, in order to make our dreams become a reality.”