Photography credit: Stuart Dods Photography
With just a few months since they said “I do”, Clint & Sally Claasen are a true representation of a friendship turned marriage.
Sally Serfontein and Clint Claasen ignited their relationship in High School, before going their separate ways. They had not made contact with each other for several years, up until they bumped into each other a few years ago and rekindled their relationship. ”Over time, the relationship evolved into something far more special than either one of us could have anticipated 22 years ago when we first met,” said Sally.
In August 2017, the time arrived when Clint got on one knee to ask Sally for her hand in marriage. ”It was exceptionally personal and sentimental” Sally fondly remembers.
As a couple who both enjoy the outdoors Sally and Clint were adamant that they wanted a venue that mirrored this. After looking at venues in the Cape and other venues in KZN, they were drawn to Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, as they both grew up in Pietermaritzburg and already had a love for the Midlands.
“Our wedding venue choice was made up of a combination of factors. The views from the Chapel and reception venue are spectacular, and overlook the Caversham Valley which has a very special place in our hearts. We have spent many wonderful trips to the area over the past few years. Other features that cemented our decision included an air-conditioned Chapel, the hotel lounges, bar and pool area which are perfect for guests to be able to mingle and explore – something we were very mindful whilst having our photographs taken. The reception venue also has multimedia facilities – so we were able to make use of this further providing our guests with some entertainment before we made our entrance as Mr & Mrs Claasen,” she added.
When it comes to the finer touches, Sally mentioned that Veronica, the banqueting manager, and her team, were absolutely amazing. From the lighting décor, to the linen, glass wear and crockery, all was provided by the hotel. Plus, it provided the perfect canvas to add their own personal touches. Sally said: “We did all our own table arrangements, and kept things to a minimum with Pennygum runners and King Protea centre pieces. We did not want a traditional set-up i.e. a main table for the bride and groom with round tables for the guests. Ours was a very small and intimate wedding of only 58 people, so we opted for 2 banquet tables running parallel to one another. This gave us the added element of intimacy with our guests and provided an atmosphere one might liken to a big family Sunday lunch – which is just what we wanted.”
For any bridal couple wanting to get the best value for their money, Granny Mouse can help make it happen. They boast and in-house pastry chef who is able to make your wedding cake and they provide a list of preferred suppliers to each couple to help in various other elements such as the music. Sally and Clint opted for Top DJ SA. The couple also made use of the Granny Mouse Farmhouse which sleeps 12 people. “This is a stunning accommodation venue, and a hidden gem in our opinion – perfect to get the family altogether under the same roof. Once again, Veronica went above and beyond in assisting us with any extra request we had. We were also particularly impressed when Veronica and her team helped us develop a delicious 2 course menu for our wedding reception that accommodated our budget. The fillet was excellent!” Sally added.
With complete confidence in the team at Granny Mouse, Sally andClint agree that this was one of the biggest reasons why they were so relaxed and had such a wonderful time on their wedding day. “We had nothing to worry about on our wedding day and would rate Granny Mouse Country House & Spa a 9 out of 10,” said the couple.
