Their mutual love for rhinos and wildlife brought them together. When they met, Noa was living in California, while Matt was visiting from his native South Africa. It was love at first sight! Noa would later move to South Africa to begin their lifelong adventure. What a beautiful couple, and we love all the gorgeous inspiration from this small intimate wedding in South Africa.

Their story as told by bride Noa:

How did you and Matt meet?

Their story began nearly two years ago during the fundraiser “Rhino Ride” when Matt was cycling down the west coast of the USA with a replica life-sized rhinoceros in tow. Matt, a South African citizen, was raising awareness on the declining population of wild rhinos in Africa, and one of his stops along the way was Safari West. Unbeknownst to Matt, Noa was a Zoo Keeper working with rhinos at Safari West. While taking him on a quick tour, she introduced Matt to her favorite rhino, Waldie, and voila! It was love at first sight! Our love and passion for rhinos and wildlife are what brought us together and what propels our continued explorations! Noa has since moved to South Africa, and together, we are adventuring on our forever safari.

Was there any adversity early on in your love story?

There was no adversity, but when I first moved to South Africa, it did put a lot of strain on our relationship trying to adjust to living in a third world country with only knowing Matt.

Tell us about finding your wedding dress

I only went to one bridal shop, which was Dreamers & Lovers, and knew even before my appointment that the Heather fringe Lace dress was the one. I only tried on five dresses that day.

SHOP NOA’S DRESS AND MANY MORE DREAMY OFF SHOULDER WEDDING DRESSES MADE IN OUR CALIFORNIA DESIGN HOUSE

What was your favorite phrase, verse, or line of your wedding vows?

I ended my vows with a quote from chaos in the stars “I didn’t fall in love with you. I walked into love with you, with my eyes wide open, choosing to take every step along the way. I do believe in fate and destiny, but I also believe we are only fated to do things we’d choose anyway. And I’d choose you, In a hundred lifetimes, in a hundred worlds, in any version of reality. I’d find you, and I’d choose you.”

What is the one detail or vendor that you were so happy to have as a part of your wedding?

My wedding photographer was amazing. She captured such natural and candid moments!! Bron from Vanilla Photography.

What advice do you have for other future-brides currently planning a wedding?

I know a lot of people say this, but please try not to stress; the day will turn out perfect, and it goes by so fast, so take everything in and let the day flow naturally.

Tell us all about the proposal

Matt proposed at a remote location off Long Tom Pass in South Africa. It was beautiful overlooking mountains after mountains.

How many guests did you have?

74 guests

Describe your wedding cake or dessert?

My wedding cake was a two-tiered natural-looking carrot cake. With succulents and rose gold flakes with a rose gold wooden cake topper of our Last name.

Tell us about your wedding flowers?

My flowers were succulents, proteas, eucalyptus, natural grasses, and roses.

What was your favorite detail of the wedding?

I had dream catchers and fairy lights everywhere; it made the rustic venue look so magical.

What’s next for you as a couple?

We are planning to extend our family soon! YESSSSSS to that!!!

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This stunning small intimate wedding in South Africa was photographed by Vanilla Photography

Wedding Dress – Heather Bohemian Fringe Gown

Would you love to see another bride wearing the Heather gown, see Jackie’s Fiesta Wedding here.