Meet Tim and Robert, two lovebirds from Germany, who first locked eyes in the middle of Cologne Carnival celebrations. “The city was buzzing, and somehow, in all that chaos, we spotted each other. It genuinely felt like everything around us slowed for a second. Tim’s warm smile was the moment everything shifted.” Like a scene from a film, don’t you think?
At Cologne Town Hall the duo wed in a civil ceremony. Then, to celebrate the milestone, they hosted an intimate yet epic bash in Cape Town, South Africa – a location they describe as a second home.
Just as cinematic as their above mentioned meet-cute, Tim and Robert’s day was a story of La Dolce Vita vibes, vineyards, mountainous backdrops and charming architecture, captured perfectly by photographer Lauren Pretorius. In our heads, this couple’s outfits live rent-free (Tim in Armani, Robert in Gucci). As does their statement florals and unique oval dining experience.
“Beneath a canopy of stars, the reception unfolded in an intimate setting designed to feel like a warm and welcoming Sunday family meal,” the newlyweds share. “With just 37 guests, it meant everyone could stay on the estate together, creating a sense of closeness that felt almost like a school trip or a campfire retreat.”
Scroll for our chat with the grooms and a plethora of pin-worthy pics.
A Destination Wedding in Cape Town
“When we visited Vrede en Lust, it immediately felt like the perfect setting. We were drawn to its beautiful Cape Dutch architecture, the serene gardens, and the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and mountains. It offered exactly the kind of atmosphere we had envisioned – historic, elegant, and deeply connected to the region we love so much. Equally important to us was the idea of hosting more than just a single wedding day. We wanted to create a multi-day experience in a place we could enjoy exclusively with our closest family and friends. With just 37 guests, it meant everyone could stay on the estate together, creating a sense of closeness that felt almost like a school trip or a campfire retreat.”
The Grooms’ Fashion: La Dolce Vita–Inspired Wedding Suits
“We set a dress code of “formal summer attire” and encouraged our guests to embrace colour. Inspired by the elegance of La Dolce Vita, we chose Italian and Italian-inspired designers for our outfits. I wore a white Gucci suit with delicate lace detailing from Dolce & Gabbana, while Tim opted for a pastel green double-breasted suit, custom-tailored by Giorgio Armani. For us, fashion is a way to express who we are, and our wedding looks reflect that – sophisticated yet playful, classic yet modern.”
A Sentimental Wedding Ceremony
“The ceremony was such an emotional highlight for us. I was filled with excitement, gratitude, and pure joy that the day had finally arrived. For Tim, it was especially meaningful because his sister officiated the ceremony. Seeing her in that role made him incredibly proud – she carried it with such grace and sincerity, guiding us through one of the most important moments of our lives. Having someone so close to us play such a central role made it feel deeply personal and unforgettable.”
The Creative Team Behind the Cape Town Destination Wedding
“Every single vendor we worked with was fantastic – highly professional, incredibly talented, and full of beautiful vision. We are especially grateful to our wedding planner, Rebecca The Wedding Fairy, for connecting us with such an amazing team. One thing that always brings us right back to the day are the photos and videos. Our photographer, Lauren Pretorius, and videographer, Derryn Orpen [Orpen Films], will always hold a very special place in our hearts. We even hosted a cinematic screening for our guests back in Germany, complete with a few bottles of MCC from Vrede en Lust, as soon as we received the wedding videos. We simply can’t get enough of the memories they captured – every photo and clip takes us right back to that magical weekend.”
Designing an Intimate, Family-Style Wedding Reception
“Most of our guests have told us it was the most beautiful wedding they had ever attended. The venue was perfect, the food outstanding, and the aesthetics truly hard to surpass. But beyond all the details, what people remember most is the atmosphere – the intimacy and warmth of the celebration. The love that surrounded us throughout the weekend was palpable, and the positive energy from that time continues to resonate with everyone who was there.”
More good stuff…
From Ibiza to Bali to local Down Under Edens, jet to the blog to enjoy more destination weddings. Or if a smaller soiree piques your interest, get inspired by these micro weddings and elopements.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Wedding Planner The Wedding Fairy Photographer Lauren Pretorius Videographer Orpen Films Venue & Catering Vrede en Lust Flowers The Grand Botanist Hiring Grand Room Design, In & Out Events Family Hair & Makeup Yolande du Toit Entertainment Play String Quartet, Shout Music, DJ N8N, Starlight Band via Starlight Agency Sound Equipment & Stage Lighting F Sharp Music Stationery Secret Diary Generator SMD Technical Sparkler Machines CQFX Celebrant Paulina Zulawski (Family) THE GROOM (ROBERT) Suit & Pants Gucci Shirt Dolce & Gabbana Shoes Dr. Martens Watch Omega Jewellery Cartier THE GROOM (TIM) Suit & Pants Giorgio Armani Shirt Stenströms Tie Herr von Eden Shoes Dior Jewellery Cartier
