Pieter-Steph & Willemien

SpringbokRugby Wedding

I always feel very privileged to be chosen to capture someone’s wedding. When I got asked to do this one though, I had a big smile on my face. It only lasted for a while though. I realised, I probably do not want to mess this one up. Pieter-Steph is pretty big 🙂

And he should be. Playing for the Springbok Team at the World Cup in England recently, this young lock is a man with a lot of potential for the future (specially now that the guys around my age retire again). As Willemien put it though, he is a gentle giant with a huge heart (and huge hands!). It was such a pleasure to get to know these two and their lovely families.

When I walked into the Du Toit house at Kloovenburg just outside of Riebeeck Kasteel, I got greeted with a kiss in the kitchen by Pieter-Steph’s Mom and an offer for lunch. His dad was keen to show me around and was very accommodating. This is what these people are like. Sommer baie lekker mense. I enjoyed the 4 brothers (PS is the eldest) and the brother banter as we got them ready for the ceremony. I asked Pieter-Steph if I could use 5 minutes to set up something less “wedding”rig. I love the rugby ball shots that this time produced.

I’ve met Willemien’s parents during our meeting and got on with them from the word go. Such down to earth people that puts their family first. Pappa du Toit LOVES his daughter and it was beautiful to see their special relationship. Willemien has the most beautiful smile and can’t stop being happy. At their Engagement shoot, I asked her to give me a serious look on a few shots. I had to be quick as the moment always just lasted for half a second!

How beautiful it is to see these families merging. I walked away from the wedding feeling like I have photographed friends and family. It was truly special and I hope to be seeing more of these lovely people soon again.

The wedding was held at Bakenhof Estate. The venue looked amazing due to Floral Affairs and the [ kraak ] team. Well done guys. Beautiful make up by the lovely Marli Basson (who I highly recommend) and videography by 25 Weddings.