It is funny how love sometimes works. It can send us million miles away to find our true love. Like the story of Jacques and Carla, who fell in love in a foreign country. We are honored to share the story of Jacques and Carla with you as told by Coba Engelbrecht Photography and the beautiful Simondium Country Lodge near Paarl in the Western Cape. Have a look and we hope that you will be inspired!

Lovebirds | How did you two meet?

We both live and work in Qatar, a tiny country in the Middle East with a huge amount of expats. We first met at an event for the 'Saffas' in Qatar, but because he was very shy and I was currently in another relationship we didn't chat much. Over the next few months we met again at braais and parties, but still nothing. As soon as my relationship ended, our mutual friend said FINALLY! and set us up. After our first date, I remember calling my best friend back in SA and telling her that this guy is one of a kind and that I can't believe I had to move 1000s of kms away from home to meet the man of my dreams.

I said Yes | How did the proposal go down?

We did everything a bit backwards. Decided to get married, started planning the wedding, and then came the proposal (we had rings made and they took a while). Although he was planning something grand, he couldn't wait to be officially engaged. Neither could I! Knowing that the rings were there, and waiting for the big surprise was my version of torture. One night, getting ready for bed, I entered the room, pj's on and there he was on his knee asking me to be his wife. It was just the two of us, simple and absolutely perfect.

The Big Day | Tell us the most memorable moment of your wedding day?

How do I choose? From walking down the aisle to our first dance to those special quiet moments together taking in all the love around us: it was our perfect day. Couldn't have asked for better!

I Quote | Describe in one sentence your wedding day

An elegant, DIY decor, pastel-coloured, romantic day filled with many smiles and happy tears, family and friends.

Forever & Always | Any advice for future brides

Be organised. Use lists and tick off as you go. Budget. Figure out what is most important to you and spend money on that. Pinterest!!! Get a theme early on, as all the ideas in your head can make you confused and indecisive. Use a moodboard to gather your ideas. Stick to your guns. It's your wedding. Loadshedding: have a plan B! Be prepared for the unexpected. Something will not go as planned, just accept it, let it go, laugh at it. Most importantly - the day goes by so fast so make sure you newlyweds take a few moments together to soak it all in and enjoy every second.