Michele and Neil knew early on that a traditional wedding wasn’t for them. Instead, they dreamed of a relaxed celebration in the Cape Winelands, surrounded by their favourite people, good wine and food, and the kind of warm atmosphere they love most. Their Franschhoek wedding brought all of that beautifully together. As regular visitors to the valley and true wine lovers, choosing a Paserene Wine Farm wedding felt like a natural and meaningful fit.
A Secret Garden Ceremony at Paserene Wine Farm
The breathtaking Paserene Wine Farm in Franschhoek as the backdrop to their celebration. With sweeping mountain views, sculptures, interesting architecture, and a peaceful setting, it offered everything they wanted for a meaningful and personal wedding experience.
Their ceremony took place in one of the estate’s hidden gems — a quiet, secluded “secret garden”. This intimate setting was perfect for the relaxed and personal style they envisioned for their intimate wedding in South Africa.
A close friend officiated the ceremony, making the moment even more heartfelt. Guests lounged casually on soft cushions and picnic blankets instead of traditional seating, which gave the whole occasion a warm, communal feel. It was simple, natural, and deeply meaningful — everything a Franschhoek wedding venue should offer.
Cocktails, Lawn Games & Live Music in the Cape Winelands
Following the ceremony, the celebration continued on the lawn overlooking the indigenous gardens and vineyards. Guests sipped cocktails and Paserene wines while playing lawn games and listening to live music drifting through the warm afternoon air. It was the perfect representation of a Cape Winelands celebration: relaxed, scenic, and filled with laughter.
This slow, sun-soaked part of the day captured the relaxed Cape Winelands magic Michele and Neil adore. The beautiful landscapes, great wine, and an effortless sense of joy bring it all together.
Family-Style Dining at Long Tables
For dinner, Michele and Neil chose long tables with abundant, family-style platters for everyone to share. This style of dining suited their laid-back celebration perfectly — guests chatted easily, passed dishes around, and enjoyed generous plates of delicious food. It reflected their love of sharing great meals with the people closest to them. It felt more like a long lunch with good friends than a formal wedding reception, which is exactly what they wanted.
A True Cape Town Twist: Weather Drama & a Rickety Bridge Toast
In true Cape Town fashion, the weather shifted dramatically as dinner was winding down. Warm and still quickly became windy and cold, sending everyone indoors to the beautiful Paserene tasting room.
Inside, Neil raised a heartfelt toast to Michele—using a bottle of Rickety Bridge wine – the first one they’d tasted on their first trip to Franschhoek. It tied their whole Franschhoek wedding story together in the most meaningful way.
Dancing the Night Away
After the toast, the DJ turned up the music and the dance floor opened. Michele and Neil spent the rest of the night celebrating with the people they love most — dancing, laughing, and enjoying the incredible atmosphere inside the tasting room. It was the perfect ending to their Franschhoek elopement: intimate, joyful, relaxed, and completely true to who they are.
The Cape Town Dream Team:
Venue: Paserene Wine Farm
Photographers: Expressions Photography
Hair & Makeup: Blush Makeup & Hair
Planner, Flowers & On the Day Management: Runaway Romance
Musician: Justin Davie
DJ: That DJ Guy
Catering: Kos Kouture
