Mareli & Juan’s Elegant Bushveld Wedding at Mountain View Game Ranch
There are some wedding days that I know will stick with us forever... and Mareli and Juan’s wedding at Mountain View Game Ranch was one of those wedding days. After seven years of dreaming together, these two made their commitment officially lifelong surrounded by their closest friends and family, and it was everything you’d imagine: elegant, colourful, and filled with heartfelt emotion.
From the moment we arrived at Mountain View Game Ranch for the morning preparations, there was joy in the air. The stunning venue set overlooking the rugged beauty of the Limpopo bushveld brings a sense of calm, but also the possibility of adventure. Inspiration can be found around every corner, whether in the golden light, or the breathtaking views.
Before we dive into their story, a huge shoutout to the incredible team of vendors who brought this day to life:
Florals & Decor: La Vie Est Belle (no easy feat considering the wind on this particular day)
Hair & Makeup: Ruth Makeup and Hairstyling
Dress: Suné Couture
DJ: DJ Emissary
Venue: Mountain View Game Ranch
A Windy, Joyful Ceremony with the Mountains as Witness
Mareli and Juan's wedding ceremony at Mountain View Game Ranch took place outdoors, framed perfectly by the mountain backdrop. The wind had quite the personality that day strong enough to challenge any veil or bouquet (and definitely any decor), but Mareli and Juan didn’t seem to notice at all. They were completely present, focused on each other and the promises they were making. And their promises were something to remember! Their beautiful, personalised vows had everyone in tears-including our photography team. It was such a perfect reminder of why we love what we do.
Exploring the Bushveld for Golden Hour
After the ceremony, we headed out into the bushveld for their couple photos, surrounded by tall grass, soft sunlight, and the sounds of nature. The Mountain View Game Ranch setting gave us plenty of variety, from open plains to the rugged textures of the veld, perfect for capturing those soft, romantic, and naturally coloured frames we love so much.
During their couple shoot, Mareli and Juan barely needed any direction. They were so in love, so genuinely joyful, and completely wrapped up in each other. You could see the seven years of anticipation and deep friendship behind every smile and glance.
Their bridal party kept the energy high! Full of laughter, jokes, and spontaneous dance moves. There’s nothing better than a group of friends who are just as excited about the day as the couple!
Pro tip: your bridal party can truly make or break your day. Choose friends who truly care about you as a couple!
A Bushveld Reception Under the Stars
As the sun dipped behind the mountains and the wind finally started to calm, guests gathered for an outdoor reception overlooking the view, dining and laughing under the Limpopo sky. The décor reflected Mareli and Juan perfectly, with vibrant florals bursting in colour from La Vie Est Belle. The speeches were heartfelt, full of love and humour, and the night unfolded with an easy, joyful rhythm, with the party being kept going by DJ Emissary.
There’s something so special about South African weddings that take place outdoors, after all, we are (usually) blessed with wonderful weather!
A Final Word
Mareli and Juan’s day reminded us just how powerful love and patience can be. After seven years together, their wedding was more than a celebration. It was a testament to commitment, laughter, and their shared faith, and reminded us in many ways of our own wedding day.
Thank you to all the wonderful suppliers who made this day possible, it takes a great team to pull off a perfect day!
If you’re planning your own wedding at Mountain View Game Ranch(or anywhere in the Limpopo/Gauteng/Mpumalanga bushveld), we’d love to capture your story, too. This venue is pure magic for photos, especially for couples who love nature, colour, and a touch of adventure.
Scroll down to enjoy some of our favourite images from the day, and if you have any questions about planning your Mountain View Game Ranch wedding, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’d love to help you bring your dream day to life.
