The countries that make up southern Africa include South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana and Namibia. These are beautiful lands; rich in character and culture, and each exuding a unique charm of its own. A theme that encompasses the arts, crafts and traditions of southern African will guarantee that your special day is filled with the [...]

The countries that make up southern Africa include South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana and Namibia. These are beautiful lands; rich in character and culture, and each exuding a unique charm of its own. A theme that encompasses the arts, crafts and traditions of southern African will guarantee that your special day is filled with the intricate beauty and depth of this area. A southern African theme is ideal for an outdoor wedding and for couples that enjoy being in nature and taking care of the land. For those that have not visited this part of the world before or who need added inspiration, many great ideas can be gleaned by paging through travel catalogues and wildlife magazines. As you do this, look carefully at the colours, textures and materials used within the cultures that reside here.

Theme Colours and Prints
The African bush reveals an assortment of earthy tones of brown, gold, green and black. Use these colours in your theme to produce an elegant, authentic theme. Utilise natural textiles like hessian, linen and cotton to enhance the theme even more. The various African cultures and tribes are acclaimed for their innovative use of colourful beads and animal prints (in the case of authentic, rural African tribes people, the actual animal skins may be used; but prints are cheaper, easier to source and far more beneficial to the environment).

Attire and Accessories
For a more realistic traditional look and feel in terms of your wedding dress and suit, keep the conventional gown, tie and jacket and simply add elements of the traditional African prints and beads to these outfits to complete the look. For example, a white or off-white wedding dress with colourfully beaded jewellery or giraffe print stilettos is subtle but so effective. Likewise, a chocolate-brown or black suit with a zebra print tie is both fun and functional. The slightly more adventurous can think about donning an entirely African outfit, like those seen on traditional southern African brides. These are generally colourful and heavily embellished with beautiful beadwork.

The bridesmaids will look striking in black, brown or gold knee-length dresses that boast animal print embellishments. Alternatively, have them wear sweet knee-length frocks made entirely out of animal print.

Be daring with your jewellery and hair accessories by incorporating porcupine quills, feathers and beads. When sourcing and purchasing quills, feathers, and other natural items, make sure that they were sourced using environmentally-responsible, fair trade means. Do not support industries or companies that abuse or misuse natural resources.

Décor
Use some of the following décor essentials to create a stunning, effective southern African theme:

• Ostrich feathers
• African drums
• Traditional tribal masks
• Wooden candle holders
• Wooden placemats
• Thatch
• Potjie pots (traditional three-legged cast iron pots that are put directly onto the fire)

Guest Gifts
Treat the family and friends that shared your special day with you with fun African mementoes. The following ides should inspire you:

• Mini potjie pots filled with tasty treats, such as nuts or chocolates.
• Personalised beaded bracelets for the ladies and key rings for the gents.
• Wire animals or other wire art.
• Flat stones with mock bushman rock art painted on, along with personalised messages.

Photo Courtesy of Percussion Workshop