Kay and Monty Weddings: Chloé and Nikolai

Surrounded by their nearest and dearest, Chloé and Nikolai’s dream wedding came to life at Kay and Monty, just outside Plettenberg Bay. We chatted to them about the highlights of their big day, their wedding style and top planning tips, plus local suppliers that they would recommend. Find out more about their totally unique wedding.

HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR HUSBAND? AND THE PROPOSAL?

Nikolai and I were introduced by my father, who was working with Nik at the time. I don’t think my Dad had any idea what that introduction would lead to, almost four years later.

Nikolai proposed to me in London, on Christmas morning. My brother lives in the UK, and we had planned to spend Christmas in London with my family. Nik had bought the ring three months before the trip, and wanted to ask me when we were surrounded by our loved ones, on one of our favourite days of the year. As we finished Christmas breakfast, we sat down to open our presents, and Nik handed me a little box… the rest, as they say, is history

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE KAY AND MONTY AS YOUR WEDDING VENUE?

When we got engaged, we really wanted something unique for our wedding. We live in Johannesburg but wanted something a little different to the regular Jo’burg or Cape Town wedding. We decided to look at other areas, and eventually settled on Plettenberg Bay. When Kay and Monty popped up in our search, we opened it, took one look at the website, and decided that we’d be getting married there. It was everything we were looking for… and more! From the location to the images of the food, it just felt like it was the perfect match. We booked our date, and a few months later, we went to view it, and were totally blown away!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WEDDING STYLE…

Nik and I wanted something that reflected who we are as a couple – simple yet classic. We went for a clean, white and modern look, which was mirrored in every element of the wedding – from the industrial lamps that hung across the tables, to the cake, and the monogram motif that was stuck on the floor. We really wanted everything about the wedding to reflect our journey as a couple. We were also quite intentional with all of our choices – everything had a special meaning, from the guests’ gifts and the handmade confetti, to every piece of music chosen.

WHAT WERE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR WEDDING DAY?

When you’re planning a wedding, everyone expects a certain amount of hysteria from the bridal couple. However, Nik and I were more overjoyed and excited than stressed or nervous. Our wedding day exceeded our expectations tenfold. It was beautiful, the weather was perfect, everyone enjoyed themselves, and we made incredible memories. It was an incredibly intimate event, with only 60 of our closest friends and family, which means that we were able to talk to each of our guests, and enjoy the evening with them. The ceremony was held on the deck of the glass conservatory, overlooking the mountains, and the reception was held inside, brought to life by endless white roses, peonies, candles, and soft lights. It was fun, romantic, and unforgettable. We were lucky enough to experience the most incredible moments, from seeing each other for the first time, to an acoustic performance of John Legend’s All of Me.

YOUR TOP TIP FOR PLANNING A WEDDING?

We were lucky enough to have my Mom as our wedding planner. She has been planning weddings and doing flowers for weddings for about 23 years, so we knew that we were in good hands. Our first tip would be to surround yourself with suppliers who understand your vision. It’s tough to translate ideas if various suppliers cannot visualize your dream.

Secondly, find an incredible videographer and photographer (we used picture me&u). Consider the expense an investment – you’ll have the photos and videos forever.

Lastly, make peace with the fact that what will be, will be. This was one of the reasons Nik and I were so relaxed on our wedding day – we were able to enjoy every minute of it, without sweating the small stuff.

ANY LOCAL SERVICE PROVIDERS THAT YOU WOULD RECOMMEND?

Claire, from Claire’s Cakes, did a phenomenal job with our cake. Our request was not the easiest, but she succeeded and it was beautiful as well as delicious!
Pippa, from Pippa’s Flowers, assisted my Mom in every way possible. We imported our roses and peonies, and needed all the help we could get with keeping them cool.
Sean Butterworth, our DJ, was also so helpful and friendly, and really kept the energy high on the dance floor.