I’m thrilled to have had the pleasure of capturing Sinovuyo and Luyanda’s wedding day at Gonubie Manor Wedding Farm recently. We hadn’t had the chance yet to meet in person before her wedding, except communicate via email and phone calls, but when I arrived that morning to capture her pre-ceremony photos, I was greeted and welcomed by a warm, sassy lady and we clicked immediately. Working with Sinovuyo and her lovely bridesmaids was so much fun and easy, everyone was in high spirits and relaxed. I asked Sinovuyo how she and Luyanda met, and this is their story in her words:

“Luyanda and I met in December 2008 at my best friend’s 21’st birthday party. There was a handful of people at the party when a group of gents walked in late and sat at the table opposite me. A few minutes later Luyanda walked in and sat next to me. For him it was love at first sight, but I can’t say the same. I wasn’t interested in his small talk but smiled and continued conversing with him as I didn’t want to come across as being rude. At one point I excused myself and he secretly followed me to the restroom. He locked us both inside and insisted I give him a kiss on the cheek, as well as my phone number if I ever wanted to get out, so I had no choice, I gave him a kiss on the cheek and my number (all I could think of was my freedom). After that one would think I was being stalked. He called me every day to check up on me and to chat and so we became good friends (I secretly enjoyed all the attention and conversations). It was only in July 2011, after almost three years of enjoying a wonderful friendship, that we both decided to officially become girlfriend and boyfriend.”

Fast forward to 10 May 2013…My sister had arranged a week-end getaway to Koffylaagte Game Lodge for us to celebrate my graduation. That morning Luyanda mentioned that he had a “graduation gift” for me, but I was too excited about receiving my MA that I had worked so hard for. After the graduation ceremony we hit the road and set off to the heartland of the Karoo. Once we’d arrived in Koffylaagte, it was only after dinner that I remembered about my “gift” and asked for it. He reached for his pocket to take it out. My heart sank with disappointment, as I thought to myself “how can he give me something so small that fits into his pocket?” As he took out the “gift”, he said: “This is about to change your life forever” and I asked Why? (with an anxious tone)…….BOOOOMM!!! There was an engagement ring and the rest is history….of course, I said YES!

Thank you to Lily (Leigh Tebbutt), my dear friend and awesome 2nd shoot for the day. You were a joy to work with as always. Looking forward to our next wedding together soon.