10 Best Wedding Venues Cape Town
Wedding Venues Cape Town - Written by Master Florist, Josie van Aswegen
A wedding is not just a celebration of love but the coming together of two families. It is crucial to choose a best wedding venues in Cape Town where hospitality, exceptional service, and attention to detail are the top priorities of function venue, the owners and the staff.
Cape Town and the surrounding Winelands are breathtaking, offering many spectacular venues. As a florist in Cape Town for the past 25 years, I am listing below some of my favourite wedding venues.
Saronsberg - Tulbagh Wedding Venues
This wine farm and rustic wedding venue has a special place in my heart and is on top of my list of the 10 best wedding venues in Cape Town. My daughter got married there, and it was the most magical celebration. Everyone at Saronsberg was a pleasure to work with, and so much care and love went into every detail. This is a self-catering venue, and we found it to be a very affordable wedding venue in Cape Town.
Their philosophy embodies class, simplicity, and grace. On a perfect day, the ceremony takes place outside under the magnificent oak trees on the front lawn. A perfect outdoor wedding venue that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The view of the surrounding mountains is spectacular and very peaceful.
Saronsberg offers excellent venue hire options, including seating arrangements and the venue with stunning views, making it a venue ideal for significant events.
It is one of the best wedding venues in Cape Town we’ve encountered for its general all-around care and natural beauty. Saronsberg is the most beautiful wedding settings and lends itself to various options when it comes to flowers and décor. The lovely wooden tables can be decorated with small simple arrangements or elaborate tall creations.
For Skye and Scott’s wedding, they opted for lots of greenery on glass walls and structures around the venue and white flower arrangements in tall glass tubular vases. The end result was stunning. We used orchids, hydrangeas, white roses, lisianthus, snaps, scabiosa, and many other beautiful seasonal blooms.
The wedding caterer was Annalize, and the food was out of this world. The wedding photographer was Grace Charlotte Photography.
Skye’s magnificent wedding dress was made by Robyn Roberts with so much love and care. This wedding venue was so special, and we loved every moment of this memorable occasion.
The Vineyard - Newlands Wedding Venues
Fabulous Flowers has been involved in many weddings at The Vineyard, a versatile function venue and one of the most scenic wedding locations and picturesque wine estates. The efficiency and dedication of the team there are remarkable, and everything is handled very professionally.
There are various areas where the ceremony can take place.
The garden and the views are magnificent views, so both simple, affordable décor and elaborate arrangements work well in this space.
My preference for this venue is to create elegant arrangements. Round, loose bowls of flowers in the centre of the round tables or tall arrangements on stands or dance floor or in tall, fluted glass vases look amazing.
Pre-drinks on the lawn under the large leafy trees, close to the fountain with the tortoises wandering around, are very special, and the whole atmosphere of this stunning venue is one of beauty, class, and relaxed sophistication.
Cellars Hohenhort - Constantia Wedding Venues
A charming and graceful sanctuary in the heart of the Constantia Valley, the Cellars-Hohenort is one of the most intimate wedding venues, the perfect setting and perfect backdrop for celebrating your special day.
We love arranging wedding flowers for this beautiful venue. There are various reception venues where the reception and ceremony can take place, and the gardens are breathtaking. They feature the second oldest camphor trees in South Africa.
The Palm Arch is a unique and highly photogenic space for an outdoor ceremony, surrounded by lush green foliage and hidden by ancient trees, yet still offering beautiful mountain views.
The food is incredible and one of the most important aspects of any wedding. The Greenhouse has been re-imagined to present a once-in-a-lifetime culinary treat for guests, as with all the other areas.
We highly recommend this beautiful place. The management and staff will ensure that your every need is taken care of and that your wedding dreams come
Mount Nelson - Cape Town Wedding Venues
From sun-splashed terraces with dazzling views of Table Mountain, your event is sure to make an impact at the Mount Nelson, one of the most historic wedding venues in cape. This venue ensures a memorable wedding day with its unique features and picturesque settings. Venues here provide beautiful wedding settings for the perfect romantic setting; whether you’re planning a large-scale event or a show-stopping wedding reception.
Located just a short drive from the Cape Town City Centre, Mount Nelson offers excellent accessibility for guests, making it a convenient choice for your special day.
We love the Mount Nelson and have spent many happy hours creating there for various bridal couples. The management and staff are so welcoming and make it as easy as possible for us as florists to deliver and set up.
We love the history and longevity behind this beautiful building. Many celebrities and royalty have stayed
What room at the Mount Nelson?
The Ballroom seats up to 400 people and lends itself to lavish flower arrangements. The space is made up of three interconnecting rooms. The dedicated entrance adds a touch of exclusivity.
The Plant Room and Conservatory is the perfect space for simple décor and a less expensive spend on the flowers. The stylish surroundings and abundant light make for beautiful photos of your special occasions. This area is for a maximum of 120 guests.
The Green Park Room and Terrace is a charming venue and is suited to smaller weddings and functions. Flooded with natural light, it benefits from an outdoor terrace and It has great views of Lion’s Head. It’s a great space for a small wedding reception of 60 guests and requires very little décor.
The possibilities are endless for simple or lavish flower arrangements in these beautiful spaces.
Rockhaven - Elgin Wedding Venues
The owners of this beautiful venue and guest house relish sharing the natural splendour of their surroundings and the modern sophistication of their unique wedding venues with their guests. They have something for every taste and a space for every event. From the Barn to the Boat House, they can take you from wedding to reception with ease while still catering to your individual needs.
Rockhaven is a stunning Cape Dutch Manor House, known for its historical significance and aesthetic appeal, making it an ideal setting for elegant weddings and luxurious accommodations.
Their venue includes a stylish collection of tables, chairs, crockery, cutlery, and glasses. Their in-house caterer has earned their position through a refreshingly simple approach to serving quality cuisine that is big on taste, using only the finest local ingredients. Whether you want a romantic waterfront wedding or are drawn to the charms of a rustic chic barn affair, they work our hardest to bring your every dream to life.
Ideal Flower Choices for Rockhaven
Fabulous Flowers staff had the best time creating here on a rainy day with rainbows appearing everywhere and a light drizzle falling.
The bride chose very bright colours, and we arranged in baskets hanging from the ceiling with very little greenery. On the tables, there were loads of petals and a mass of small colourful arrangements.
Large barrels were placed all over the venue with flowers cascading down the sides. The ceremony took place in the boat house with deck overlooking over the small lake. We placed a stunning flower construction over the window and decorated the pillars with beautiful colourful blooms.
I was invited to this wedding and had the pleasure of spending the wedding night in the guest estate in one of the gorgeous suites.
All in all, this was an amazing experience for everyone concerned.
Casa Labia - Muizenberg Wedding Venue
This is another venue with a huge history, which we have talked about below. As one of the most elegant wedding venues in cape town, the décor is very lavish and beautiful, and it all blends together perfectly. Getting married on the rolling lawns with the sea as a backdrop is breathtaking.
What we love about this venue is that one can go a little crazy with colours and then also use whites and creams for a very elegant look.
In 1929, Count & Countess Labia decided to build a home of their own at Muizenberg on the ground which, in the distant past, had been the site of an old battery set up to protect False Bay from hostile and marauding ships.
The interior fittings – the furniture, chandeliers, mirrors, ceiling panels, and wall fabrics – were imported from Venice. To ensure that the work was carried out in authentic Venetian style, the Count arranged for an interior decorator to be brought from Italy. The decorator, an excitable and voluble Venetian by the name of Angelo Zaniol, arrived in Cape Town early in 1930 and remained here
History of Count Labia
Count Labia died in January 1936. Writing of the Count, the Cape Times commented: “He liked our country, and he liked its people, and it may equally be said that they liked him, for he was a man of natural goodness of heart and of charming hospitality.” And The Cape Argus commented, “Count Labia’s public spirit and generosity are known to every Italian in the Union and to many who are not Italian. He fathered the community in South Africa and helped their children to go to see Italy. He inspired many a good work which no doubt will be continued even though he himself has gone.”
After Ida’s death in 1961, the house stood empty once more – and a little later, The Fort was leased to the Canadian Government as their embassy in Cape Town, and it was subsequently leased for many years to the Argentine Government.
A new phase began in 1985 with the joint decision on the part of the Department of National Education, the Director of the South African National Gallery, Dr Raymond van Niekerk, and the Treasury, to preserve Casa Labia and to open it to the public as a museum and cultural centre. The brief to convert Casa Labia into a satellite museum of the South African National Gallery was given in July 1985. Construction commenced in May 1987, and the work was completed in March 1988. Twenty years later, in 2008, Count Luccio Labia (son of Count Natale Labia) regained ownership of the property, and it was with assistance from his daughter, Antonia Labia Hardres-Williams, that the house was lovingly restored to its original glory and opened as a multi-functional cultural centre and up-market venue in May 2010.
Twelve Apostles - Cape Town Wedding Venue
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa offers one of the most beautiful and exclusive wedding venues in Cape Town. Framed by the Table Mountain National Park and gazing out over the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, the five-star hotel offers a variety of venues and facilities catering for intimate nuptials, intimate weddings or elaborate celebrations. From gardens of indigenous fynbos to glamorous events venues, there’s a wedding venue at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa that’s perfect for you.
Professional and friendly staff are on hand to organise the big day and ensure that each couple experiences the perfect wedding day. The dedicated weddings team will assist the couple with planning their wedding ceremonies
So Much More Than A Venue
At the Twelve Apostles, your choices are endless when planning your special day, and the enthusiastic team is passionate about the service they provide. Whether it’s a large affair or a small, intimate destination wedding, they will do whatever it takes to treat you like royalty and offer the most romantic and special wedding that you could possibly dream of.
The New Gazebo in the garden is stunning and looks incredible draped and filled with flowers or just greenery if your budget is smaller.
As with most of the beautiful wedding venues in and around western Cape Town, the vegetation and views are so incredible. How lucky are we?
Alluvia - Helshoogte Pass Wedding Venue
“Alluvia Boutique Winery is a hidden gem wedding venue nestled in the Banhoek Valley on the picturesque Helshoogte Pass, just outside Stellenbosch. The estate boasts a range of offerings from a unique marquee tent, seating 100 guests, amongst the vineyards and a bistro-style restaurant, seating 70 guests to the luxury accommodation accommodations and a tranquil spa. Sprinkle in a little Alluvia magic, and you have your dream wedding destination.”
“The crème de la crème of Alluvia wedding packages gives you the exclusive use of the estates best wedding venues and restaurant facilities. You’ll celebrate your special day with style and panache. Walk down the aisle in idyllic surroundings, and toast to a vineyard sunset at canapes before dancing the night away in a candle-lit marquee tent. Everlasting memories are yours.”
The wine estate the-tasting room is also a venue for a smaller celebration, complete historic wine estate, with an outdoor ceremony pre reception drinks
Cape Point Vineyards - Noordhoek Wedding Venue
A unique vineyard wedding venue where you are only kilometres away from Cape Town, yet feel as if you’re miles away from the world.
Your vineyard wedding at Cape Point Vineyards begins with a journey from city life to sublime tranquillity of cape mountains. Noordhoek is accessible via the world-famous Chapman’s Peak Drive or via Ou Kaapse Weg, a mountain pass through the heart of the Silvermine Nature Reserve.
In Noordhoek, two magnificent marble lions that once adorned the tomb
Zorgvliet - Stellenbosch Wedding Venue
Zorgvliet Wines can be the perfect wedding venue is for you if you are looking for stylish, wedding photography venues that add a touch of elegance and style to your big day. Nestled in the Banghoek Valley near Stellenbosch, you will be amazed at the breathtakingly spectacular views of the Simonsberg Mountains and vineyards, and your wedding pictures will afford you absolutely classic memories.
Zorgvliet Wines offers a variety of options; they have a very elegant wedding venue (The Oak room) for your reception and a chapel for your ceremony. They also have their Country Lodge’s lounge area (The Banghoek room) that can be used for pre-drinks. For the guests who would like to stay over, they have a Country Lodge that is within walking distance from the reception venue. For pre or post-wedding activities, your guests can enjoy their wonderful picnic and deli area, a country-styled restaurant, or a BBQ under the stars. They have a modern cellar that you can tour by appointment or pay a visit to their wine tasting and savour the taste of Zorgvliet.
Why Zorvliet For Your Wedding Venue?
Zorgvliet Wines is a secure wine estate, with security service and secure parking areas for your wine estate and your guests.
They offer a wide variety of function venues and styles best venues to choose from, so at Zorgvliet, you will find exactly what you are looking for. For more formal occasions such as wedding receptions, dinners with dancing, conferences, and sit-down lunches, they offer buffets, wine pairings, bowl food, and set menus at their exquisite Banghoek and Oakroom venues.
The function venue itself is a blank canvas and function venue can be styled very simply or lavishly with tall arrangements that work very well too.
The chapel is beautiful and very serene. We have created beautiful flower arrangements there.
Collaborations with Other Service Providers
We deal with many top wedding venues and service providers in the industry. Recently, we have collaborated with Molteno Couture. One of the reasons we love her brand is that body positivity is one of the cornerstones of her business, and we love that she is embracing normal.
She has a unique flair and style in her designs. Your dress would be one of a kind, and she would take excellent care of you.
Plan Your Dream Wedding with Fabulous Flowers
There are a stunning array of dream wedding venues in the Western Cape, each with its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you prefer the elegant sophistication of The Vineyard, the historic grandeur of Mount Nelson, or the rustic charm of Rockhaven, there is a perfect venue for every couple. Fabulous Flowers is proud to have worked with these remarkable wedding venues, and looks forward to helping you create your dream wedding.
Book your dream wedding with the Cape Town wedding florist, Fabulous Flowers, and let us make it the most beautiful, special wedding day for you, we love watching your dreams come true.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a wedding cost in Cape Town?
The cost of a wedding in Cape Town can vary widely depending on various factors such as the venue, number of guests, season, and level of luxury. On average, you can expect to spend between R80,000 to R300,000 (approximately $5,500 to $20,000 USD) for a wedding in Cape Town. However, high-end or luxury weddings can easily exceed R500,000 ($34,000 USD) or more.
How much does a wedding cost for 100 guests in South Africa?
For a wedding with 100 guests in South Africa, you might expect to spend between R150,000 to R300,000 (approximately $10,000 to $20,000 USD). This estimate includes the venue, catering, decor, and other essential elements. Keep in mind that costs can be higher or lower depending on your choices and location within South Africa.
What do most wedding venues cost?
Wedding venue costs in South Africa can vary greatly. On average, you might expect to pay:
- Budget venues: R5,000 - R20,000 ($350 - $1,400 USD)
- Mid-range venues: R20,000 - R50,000 ($1,400 - $3,500 USD)
- High-end venues: R50,000 - R100,000+ ($3,500 - $7,000+ USD)
These prices often include basic amenities, but additional services like catering, decor, and entertainment are usually extra.
How do I plan a small budget wedding in South Africa?
To plan a small budget wedding in South Africa:
- Choose an off-peak season or day of the week
- Limit your guest list
- Consider alternative venues like public parks or community centres
- DIY decorations and favours
- Opt for a buffet or cocktail-style reception instead of a sit-down meal
- Use local, seasonal flowers
- Hire new or student photographers/videographers
- Consider a morning or afternoon wedding to save on catering costs
- Rent or buy a second-hand wedding dress
- Use digital invitations instead of printed ones
What is a realistic budget for a wedding in South Africa?
A realistic budget for a wedding in South Africa could range from R80,000 to R200,000 ($5,500 to $13,500 USD) for a moderate-sized wedding of 80-120 guests. This budget typically covers essentials like the venue, catering, attire, decor, photography, and entertainment. However, many couples manage to have beautiful weddings for less, while others spend significantly more for luxury experiences.
What are some more popular wedding venues in Cape Town?
Cape Town offers a diverse range of stunning wedding venues. Some popular options include:
- Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
- Cavalli Wine Estate
- Fransmanskraal
- Waterkloof Wine Estate
- Suikerbossie Restaurant
- Marianne Wine Estate
- Lourensford Wine Estate
- The Roundhouse
These venues offer a mix of scenic beauty, from vineyards and mountains to ocean views, catering to various preferences and budgets.
What is the best time of year to get married in Cape Town?
The best time for a wedding in Cape Town largely depends on your preferences:
- Summer (December to February): Warm and dry, perfect for outdoor weddings. However, this is peak tourist season, so venues may be more expensive and crowded.
- Autumn (March to May): Mild temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing leaves. Generally less crowded than summer.
- Winter (June to August): Cooler and can be rainy. Indoor venues are preferable, but prices may be lower.
- Spring (September to November): Pleasant temperatures and stunning wildflowers. A popular time for weddings as the weather improves.
Consider that the Western Cape has a Mediterranean climate, so winters are mild compared to many other regions.
How far in advance should I book a wedding venue in Cape Town?
It's advisable to book your Cape Town wedding venue at least 12-18 months in advance, especially if you're planning a wedding during peak season (October to April) or at a popular venue. Some highly sought-after wedding venues in the Cape, may require bookings up to 2 years in advance.
Are there any unique South African wedding traditions I should know about?
South Africa's diverse culture offers several unique wedding traditions:
- Lobola: A traditional African custom where the groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family.
- Jumping the Broom: A tradition adopted from African American culture, symbolizing sweeping away the old and welcoming the new.
- Karamu Ya Imani: A feast of faith and unity, often held the night before the wedding.
- Knobkierie: A Zulu tradition where the father of the bride hands a knobkierie (a wooden staff) to the groom, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility.
- Vat en Sit: An Afrikaans tradition where couples live together before marriage.
Including these traditions can add a unique, cultural touch to your Cape Town wedding.
What legal requirements do I need to know for getting married in South Africa?
To legally marry in South Africa:
- Both parties must be 18 years or older.
- You need valid passports and birth certificates.
- If previously married, you must provide divorce papers or a death certificate of the former spouse.
- You must have two witnesses present at the ceremony.
- The marriage must be conducted by a registered marriage officer.
- You need to obtain an "Apostille" stamp on your marriage certificate if you want it to be recognized internationally.
Non-residents can get married in South Africa without a special visa, but it's recommended to arrive at least a week before the wedding to finalize arrangements.
How can I incorporate local elements into my Cape Town wedding?
To give your wedding a distinctly Cape Town flavor, consider:
- Serving South African wines from local Cape Winelands estates
- Including traditional South African dishes like bobotie or malva pudding in your menu
- Using proteas, South Africa's national flower, in your floral arrangements
- Incorporating African prints or beadwork into your decor or attire
- Hiring local musicians to perform traditional South African music
- Offering guests local favors like biltong, rooibos tea, or locally made crafts
These elements can create a unique and memorable experience for both local and international guests.
