Lelani & Rynhard’s winter wedding at The Stone Cellar

Some weddings have that effortless kind of magic. Every moment feels right, every detail makes sense, and every guest leaves saying,
“That was the best wedding I’ve ever been to.”
How their story began
Lelani and Rynhard met on the dating app Hinge in 2023, proof that sometimes modern love stories are written with a swipe. Both in their 30s, they shared a clear sense of what they wanted (and what they didn’t) when it came to their wedding.
“From the beginning, we both knew there were certain wedding traditions that we didn’t want. No shenanigans — just a special day with our special people.”
Why The Stone Cellar?
Lelani had attended a wedding at The Stone Cellar almost ten years earlier, and she never forgot it.
“I fell in love with the venue instantly. Even though it looked a bit different back then, it amplified everything I love – that mix of farm rustic and city-lights charm. The Highveld winters have a special place in my heart, and The Stone Cellar captures that perfectly.”
The couple loved the combination of natural textures, soft light, and refined simplicity. The ‘Melkstal’ chapel — with its clean white lines and airy atmosphere — set the tone for their elegant ceremony.
Their wedding theme, “Botanical,” featured no flowers, only lush green plants, candles, and soft lighting. The result was modern, grounded, and full of character, exactly what they had envisioned.
“No other venue could have made our theme come to life the way The Stone Cellar did.”
From the mismatched chairs to the fairy lights and the glass-panelled backdrop showcasing the golden winter landscape, every corner of the venue played a part in their story. The on-site accommodation was another highlight — “so thoughtfully planned and perfect for our families and closest friends.”
A seamless planning experience
Behind every flawless wedding day, there’s a team quietly making sure everything runs smoothly.
“Effective admin and great communication were the reasons our perfect day ran so smoothly. Quick responses to thousands of emails made planning a breeze. We knew we were in great hands.”
The Feast (and that Famous Fillet)
It wouldn’t be a Stone Cellar wedding without incredible food, and for these two, it’s still a topic of conversation among friends.
“From the canapés to our family-style dining, every bite was superb. The fillet with mushroom sauce is still one of the main discussion points!”
Their guests danced, laughed, and celebrated late into the night — the ultimate sign of a day well spent.
“These days, when we experience something special, we say, ‘Did you get the Stone Cellar feeling?’ Because from the very first moment we saw the venue, we knew it was the one — and wow, we weren’t wrong. What a special place.”
Favourite moments
“The whole day was incredibly special. From the Friday night braai with our families and closest friends to getting pampered on Saturday, wearing my gorgeous dress, and seeing my handsome husband waiting at the end of that perfect chapel aisle. Every part of it felt like us.”
Their advice to future couples
“Don’t sweat the small stuff. Decide what’s non-negotiable and stick to it. It’s your wedding, you don’t have to do everything someone else once did. A great DJ, good wine, and a perfect venue with a feast are all you need for an unforgettable wedding.”
They also shared how much they valued planning the wedding together.
“Rynhard was involved in every decision from the start. It made the journey leading up to the wedding so special for both of us.”
The one thing they’d do differently
Nothing.
“Honestly, if I had to do it over again, I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Instead of traditional bridesmaids, Lelani spent the morning with her mom and sisters. A calm, intimate start to the day.
Every supplier, from her bespoke gown by Mimie’s Bridal Atelier to Meraki Makeup, Zettie’s Daydreaming for their décor, Egyptian Foiling & Printing, Honeybee Baker, Starrynight DJ, and Carolien and Ben Photography, played a part in making their day perfect.
“Every supplier delivered everything and more. And to The Stone Cellar team — thank you for making our wedding the best day of our lives. You truly are amazing.”
Suppliers Who Brought It All Together
- Venue & Catering: The Stone Cellar
- Photography: Carolien and Ben Photography
- Dress: Mimie’s Bridal Atelier
- Makeup: Meraki Makeup
- Décor: Zettie’s Daydreaming
- Stationery: Egyptian Foiling & Printing
- Cake: Honeybee Baker
- DJ: Starrynight DJ
Thank you, Lelani and Rynhard, for sharing your story and reminding us what it’s all about —
love, laughter, and that unmistakable Stone Cellar feeling.