If your Pinterest board is overflowing with soft candlelight, flowing fabrics, and vows that could make even your auntie cry, then a romantic wedding theme might just be your perfect match.

Romantic weddings aren’t just about roses and ruffles — they’re about feelings. The deep kind. The kind that makes your guests tear up during your vows and sob quietly into their serviettes during your first dance.

Here’s your guide to creating a heartfelt, love-soaked celebration — whether you're planning your I-do’s on a mountaintop in Chimanimani or at a candlelit courtyard in Stellenbosch.

💍 Step 1: Start With the Heart (Your Vows)

Write your vows with intention. Whether you're doing traditional vows or personal ones, this is your moment to honour your journey.

Pro Tip: Carve out time during your ceremony or reception for private vows — just the two of you. In a world full of performances, this quiet moment will mean everything.

👰🏾‍♀️ Step 2: The Dress (and Veil) of Dreams

Romantic brides tend to go for:

Off-the-shoulder silhouettes

Delicate lace or chiffon

Flowing veils that catch the wind at sunset

Soft, natural makeup and swept-up hair with floral pins or pearls

Think more ethereal softness and less glam squad drama.

🌸 Step 3: The Setup – Soft, Dreamy & Swoon-Worthy

Here’s your romantic reception starter pack:

Blush and ivory colour palette (with a splash of gold or dusty rose)

Floating candles + taper candles in antique holders

Soft linen napkins + handwritten love notes at each place setting

A sweetheart table with grazing board and signature cocktails

Fairy lights woven into your tablescape, draped from the trees, or lining your aisle

Wild florals (roses, baby’s breath, peonies) in loose, organic arrangements

Southern African twist: Add dried proteas or eucalyptus from local growers. Bonus points for including mbira or acoustic guitar for ceremony music.

📸 Step 4: The Feels-First Photos

Romantic weddings aren't about the posed shots — they’re about the in-between moments:

The tear as you walk down the aisle

The smile during your vows

The hand squeeze before your first dance

Ask your photographer for documentary-style coverage and golden hour couple portraits.

🍷 Step 5: Set the Tone with a Soundtrack

Keep it soulful. Whether it’s:

A live string duo

A playlist of R&B love songs

A local artist singing a Shona or isiZulu love song

Your music should melt hearts and keep the romance flowing long after dinner.

✨ Bonus: Signature Touches to Make It Yours

His & hers cocktails with custom names

Floating candles in bowls around your dance floor

Table names inspired by your love story (First trip, First kiss, Our song)

A dance floor surrounded by candles for that cinematic vibe

💡 Love Like Yours Deserves a Wedding Like This

Romantic weddings are timeless for a reason — they honour love in its softest, most soulful form. If you're a couple that thrives on connection, this is your lane.

Use our Romantic Wedding Moodboard Tool to start piecing together your own love-drenched dream, or search for vendors using tags like #RomanticRendezvous, #CandlelightVibes, and #SoftlyEverAfter.