Real Wedding SOUTH AFRICA
is on the edge of the Greater Kruger National Park and is designed as a small and peaceful retreat with 21 rooms and suites across two authentically African lodges. There are superb wildlife spotting opportunities for the ‘big five’ and a wide variety of other species – there’s even a hippo watering hole right on site – and breathtaking views to the distant Drakensberg Mountains. Alongside the safari drives and walking safaris, the resort offers a spa, superb food and a wellstocked wine cellar of South Africa’s finest vintages – so perfect romantic setting for an unforgettable stay. With Ulusabi booked, all Richard and Martin had to do was pack – their wedding arrangements were in the capable hands of the on-site team. They had chosen a date in November, which is a good time to visit as it’s midway through spring in South Africa and lovely weather comes pretty much
guaranteed. They were both overawed by the beauty of the place when they arrived, and say that the welcome they received was very special. “We were greeted by the amazing Anel. She planned our wedding to perfection and instantly put us at ease. Within minutes of arriving we felt welcomed and part of the family,” says Martin. They had chosen to get married at Kings Rock – one of a number of stunning outdoor locations at the reserve just made for a wedding ceremony. Wearing smart suits and waistcoats, and with toning floral ties and fabulous buttonholes featuring apricot roses and vivid blue flowers, Richard and Martin swapped rings overlooking what they describe as: “breathtaking scenery”. While this was an intimate wedding, it wasn’t entirely private as a curious band of monkeys turned up to act as impromptu witnesses. During their ceremony, there was a wonderful choir from Ulusaba – the locals are renowned for their singing and they performed traditional Shangaan songs to celebrate the moment. Then, perfect end to a perfect day, the newlyweds went on a private game drive to experience more wonderful animal encounters in this wild and precious African landscape.
“The wedding was planned to perfection – within minutes of arriving at Ulusaba we felt welcomed and part of the family”
* Richard and Martin planned their wedding with Virgin Limited Edition, which offers weddings and honeymoons at Ulusaba Private Reserve. For more information, visit virginlimitededition.com ABSOLUTELY-WEDDINGS.CO.UK
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