Welcoming of the Bride
Dima
& Lolo
Saturday · 21 November 2026 · Secunda
Where to find us
The Venues
Oleratong Guesthouse
Secunda, Mpumalanga
South Africa
The family home of the groom, Oleratong Guesthouse is where we'll gather in the morning for umembeso and the traditional welcoming of the bride, before continuing on to Thakhu Brunfelsia Estate for the reception.
Open in Google Maps →Thakhu Brunfelsia Estate
N17, next to the Bethal/Trichardt Toll Plaza
Secunda, Mpumalanga
South Africa
Set on the Eastern Highveld overlooking a tranquil dam, Thakhu Brunfelsia Estate offers wide open lawns, gardens, and a charming country atmosphere for our celebration.
Open in Google Maps →The day ahead
Schedule
Oleratong Guesthouse
7:30 AM
Arrival & Welcome of the Bride's Family
Guests gather at Oleratong Guesthouse to welcome the bride's family.
8:00 AM
Breakfast
A light breakfast is served ahead of the morning's proceedings.
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Umembeso & Kamogelo ya Ngwetši
Traditional gift-giving and the formal welcoming of the bride.
11:30 AM
Venue Change
Guests depart Oleratong Guesthouse and travel to Thakhu Brunfelsia Estate, where the wedding party will be welcomed.
Thakhu Brunfelsia Estate
12:00 PM
Welcoming of Guests
Guests are welcomed and settled for the celebration festivities.
12:30 PM
Start of Celebration
The reception programme begins.
2:30 PM
Lunch is Served
A seated lunch is served as the celebration continues.
What to wear
Dress Code
Ubuntu in Colour. This celebration is about two families becoming one — an amaXhosa family and a BaPedi family, each carrying their own rich traditions, languages, and ways of honouring life's greatest moments. Out of that union, we want every guest to show up in whatever colours, fabrics, and styles speak to their own heritage; whether it is seShweshwe, isiZulu beadwork, a Basotho blanket, khiba, or anything that feels like home to you. The swatches alongside echo our flag — not as a dress code, but as a reminder that many colours can share the same cloth. Come as you are, and dress to celebrate who we are becoming together.
Outfit Inspiration ✦ Celebrate Your Heritage
Where to rest
Accommodation
The Merchant Hotel
~13 km from venue · Lake Umuzi Waterfront
Deluxe and Junior rooms with air-conditioning, DSTV, and complimentary ADSL internet. Bed & breakfast included. Restaurants and entertainment on the waterfront. No twin rooms available.
Book now →InnGreen @ Lake Umuzi
~13 km from venue · Lake Umuzi Waterfront
Double and twin en-suite rooms with free Wi-Fi, all non-smoking. Close to the same waterfront restaurants as The Merchant — a relaxed, eco-conscious stay.
Book now →Lake Umuzi Chalets
~13 km from venue · Lake Umuzi Waterfront
Self-catering 4- and 6-sleeper chalets, ideal for families or groups travelling together. Refundable breakage deposit applies per unit.
Book now →Khayalami Hotel
~13 km from venue · Secunda Town
Smart TVs with Netflix, air-conditioning, bar fridge, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Complimentary shuttle service and secure on-site parking.
Book now →Q's Hotels & Apartments
~20 km from venue · Evander
Hotel rooms and apartments with air-conditioning, in-room internet, and an outdoor pool. Free on-site parking — a comfortable option for guests wanting a little more space.
Book now →Graceland Hotel, Casino & Country Club
~18 km from venue · Secunda
Resort-style stay with 98 rooms and suites, an 18-hole Gary Player golf course, the Rootz Boutique Spa, a casino, and on-site dining at Madison's Bistro. Plenty to enjoy over the wedding weekend.
Book now →We recommend booking early as Secunda accommodation fills up quickly closer to the date.
Gifts
Gift Registry
Your presence is the greatest gift of all. If you'd like to celebrate with a gift, gift cards from any of the stores below are warmly welcomed.
Gift cards may be handed to us on the day or arranged with the couple directly.
A few things to note
Good to Know
Cash Bar
The venue operates a fully stocked cash bar. Outside alcohol is not permitted on the premises.
Hubbly Bar
A hubbly bar will be available on the evening. Please note that outside hubbly is not permitted.
Secure Parking
Complimentary secure parking is available at the venue. Please follow signage on arrival.
Adults Only
This is an adults-only celebration. We kindly ask that children are not brought to the venue so that all guests may enjoy the evening fully.
Pack Comfortable Shoes
The garden terrain is beautiful but uneven in places. We recommend packing a pair of comfortable shoes for the dance floor later in the evening.
Bring a Warm Layer
The dam nearby can carry a cool evening breeze. A light jacket or wrap is recommended for the outdoor portions of the evening.
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