Meanwhile, guests had an opportunity to take the afternoon to rest and change before the evening reception, which was held in a glass marquee featuring an art gallery and secret after-party club. The bride’s reception dress was custom designed by Ese Azenabor, a New York and Dallas-based Nigerian designer, who incorporated crystals and beading embellishments throughout the bodice. The groom wore a Dolce & Gabbana double-breasted tuxedo, which allowed him to showcase his unconventional style.
After freshening up, guests were treated to a pre-reception packed with entertainment. There was a saxophonist, African dances, marimbas, and a DJ. “It was a party before the party and guests were unaware of what was coming next,” Tanya says. “At a particular time, guest were ushered to the reception along a wooden path across a little stream to the structure that we had built [for the reception]. As they arrived, they found their names displayed in the entrance as they were walking through an art gallery. Lethabo, the bridal party, and I entered the reception in steps. Steps is a traditional way of entering a room where the bridal party does a dance. Each step is unique to a person‘s wedding.”
From the MC to the DJs, Tanya and Lethabo worked with the top talent in South Africa. “Our MC, Maps Maponyane, is one of the most well-known presenters in Africa,” Tanya explains.
During the reception, there was also a live band. At this point, the reception felt more like an after-party. During one of the songs, a curtain dropped, revealing popular amapiano DJ Major League on stage. “We provided slippers for women to change out of their heels,” Tanya says. “And the waiters wore masks to give a an elegant carnival feel.” Late night snakes like burgers and pizzas were served, and there were ice cream and crème brûlée stations, plus a tequila fountain. This was followed by a lineup of other performances including Soul Nativez. “We stuck to the genre Amapiano for the first few hours, and then had a diverse playlist afterwards,” Tanya says. “And, the party went until 4:00 a.m.”
The day after, the wedding guests gathered once more for an afternoon brunch hosted in a small town in the mountains of the Western Cape. “Seeing and hearing about our wedding from other people gave us such amazing insight,” Tanya remembers. “We are so blessed and grateful to have been able to have our dream wedding but also share it with those we hold dearest.”