Rob & Stephanie

Venue: Summerhouse & Chapel

Guests: 120

Photographer: Helenus Kruger

2010-11-05

Rob and I met at Tuks in 2000. We met through a mutual girlfriend at the varsity canteen. It was instant attraction at first sight! I had a boyfriend at the time, and Rob was going on a trip for 2 weeks shortly after we met. When Rob got back from his trip, we met again …. this time I had no boyfriend! I only had eyes for Rob and couldn’t wait to “bump” into him again! I arranged through my girlfriend to “set us up” again. I had no idea, but our second meeting was on his birthday, in the piazza of Tuks. We spoke briefly, and afterwards I found out that it was his birthday. I felt so bad for not saying Happy birthday to him when we spoke, that I drove to his house that afternoon to take him a birthday gift! He was bowled over by this bold gesture, and we’ve been inseparable ever since!

After 9 years together, we organised a trip to Italy with friends of ours. Halfway through the trip, Rob proposed on the beach of Ischia, Italy. It was incredibly romantic. At dusk, Rob led us down to the beach, where he found the perfect spot to lay a blanket. Our view overlooked the Aragonese Castle in the ocean …. simply breathtaking. Rob popped out the champagne, and I just knew where things were headed. I didn’t hesitate to say yes! Rob proposed with a massive fake ring, since he knew I had a very specific ring in mind. It was just perfect! I insisted on wearing the fake ring for the rest of the holiday ….. it looked real enough at a glance. Perhaps too real for Naples!?!

Rob and I were engaged for 14 months. We found Oakfield Farm in January 2010 and our hearts were set. The stunning gardens, the Chapel set in the woods, the Summerhouse … we were captivated. November 5th 2010 was the only available date for us, but we also needed the time to save, and to plan the perfect day! Our service started at 4pm on a Friday, and after fearing that 120 guests wouldn’t get off work in time, or get stuck in traffic …. to my surprise, every single person in my life, was in the Chapel as I walked down the aisle. It was overwhelming. All Rob and I had to do all day …. was smile and enjoy every minute. Absolutely everything else was taken care of. Gerald even dished my food! My glass during the reception was never empty. Our every need was seen to – and then some! Everyone had the time of their lives. Oakfield Farm and the staff made the best day of our lives …. Unforgettable! Thank you!