The Muvhango power couple tied the knot for the third time in a fairytale wedding held at the Italian-themed Avianto Estate in Muldersdrift, near Joburg. The elegant cream and white wedding gown designed by Machere gave life to the overall theme.
“The dress was designed first and was the inspiration for everything surrounding the wedding. Even the venue and the theme were inspired by the dress,” said the soapie’s publicist, Amanda Ngudle.
The whitewash decor, cake, wardrobe and makeup were influenced by the jewel-encrusted dress with its structured leather skirt and sheer bodice.
The detail is impeccable; from the bejewelled chiffon sleeves to the intricate sequin-quilted back with buttons that run down to the skirt.
The bride starts her day in typical fashion, shut up in a room with her mother talking about what lies ahead.
When we catch up with her in the bridal suite, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area, she is in awe of the wedding gown, which she is seeing for the first time since her final fitting.
“It’s such a beautiful dress! I’m so excited to walk down the aisle in it. It’s way better than what I had imagined it to be,” Thandaza said.
The delicate jewellery is carefully selected, some of it because of its sentimental value.
“This necklace was given to me by Ranthumeng and I get to wear it on our wedding day, which is very special. The other pieces also complement the dress and necklace.”
The dainty chain anchors a simple diamond and is paired with elegant pearl earrings and a bracelet.
“The necklace is my something old and the shoes are my something blue,” she laughs, pointing at the suede peep toe heels with an ankle strap.
The blushing bride’s braided bun is different from her usual neatly trimmed hair. She looks every inch the princess.
It’s time for the ceremony to start, and we join the hordes of special guests seated outside.
The ceremony is held in an amphitheatre, in true Italian style. The decor is minimalist and sophisticated, the altar a pretty arch accentuated by hanging hearts.
The soft sounds of the piano serenade in the background as the star-studded bridal party walk in. Thandaza makes her way slowly down the white carpeted stairs. The groom, in a black and white tuxedo, is grinning.
Family and friends ululate as the couple exchanges their vows – again.
The joy and excitement is palpable, as if this is the first time the couple are tying the knot.
The autumn sun starts to set as the new Mr and Mrs Mokoena seal their union with a kiss.
It’s picture-perfect. www.sundayworld.co.za



