SOUTH AFRICA | 26-27 MARCH 2021
"Big, exciting and innovative event brought to you in the comfort of your own home!"
In collaboration with
The idea of a Wedding expo has always revolved around large groups of People meeting at a common venue & engaging with the stalls and activities on the exhibition floor.
Given the current situation, what if we told you that you can participate in a wedding expo with all the aesthetics and experiences of attending an interactive Live event from the comfort of your own home or from Wherever you are?
We present to you a never seen before, better than face-to-face, experience on your screen with ESPOUSAL ONLINE through state of the art technology that enables us to stay connected.
What is Espousal Online?
A platform for the wedding fraternity across the world to come together in a collaborative effort to inspire and delight.
It aims to provide the opportunity to SA’s most sought after wedding suppliers, organisers and thousands of diverse couples & consumers, to experience a wondrous showcase of culture, tradition and diversity at a one-stop destination. Meticulous planning, courage to adapt and relentless pursuit to deliver an exceptional virtual experience, is what keeps the ESPOUSAL team motivated and make this a truly global experience!
Our Speakers
Dr. Alex Granger
ThinkShifter, Consultant, Global Speaker, Coach
Dr. Alex Granger is considered one of the top leadership and personal mastery speakers, and Life coaches in Africa. His work is embraced by business leaders
of blue chip companies, associations, institutes, and leaders in government. He has been speaking since 2002. He holds a Ph.D in Philosophy with his thesis on
Epistemological Mindsets, a Doctor of Excellence (Honoris Causa), an Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP) from the Gordon‘s Institute of Business Science with a distinction in Leadership and he is a certified NLP Life Coach, and certified Virtual Instructor Led Trainer (VILT).
Kelly Mortimer
Wedding industry expert, speaker & trainer
Kelly is a leading wedding industry expert, speaker & trainer. Working with venues & vendors globally to help them drive revenue and bookings. With 20 years in the industry Kelly has worked on events across the world and for celebrities, and royalty including The Queen.
Llewellyn Du Plessis
Managing Director - Urban Motion Event
I am a highly motivated and hardworking individual with over 10 years’ experience in both the entertainment and events industries. Over the years I have developed a mature and responsible approach to any task I undertake, or situation I am presented with. The practical knowledge and skills I have honed over that goes into making any event or production a success. I have excellent communications skills and I am very comfortable working in a fast paced, hands-on, growth orientated work environment.
Otto De Jager
Founder - Otto De Jager Events
Otto de Jager is well known for his originality, innovation and unrivalled professionalism for 20 years in the field of event management. We pride ourselves on working with the best of the best suppliers. From sound to linen, photographers to cakes, we have established lasting relationships with quality and trustworthy partners. ODJ Events is an Empowering Supplier in terms of the DTI Codes of Good Practice and a Level Four 4 Contributor with 100% B-BBEE procurement recognition.
Richard Wright
Founder & Director - The Enrichment Project (Pty) Ltd
Richard is a dad to two gorgeous daughters, a three times - stage four - brain cancer survivor who whilst fighting the cancer finished 6 full Ironman events along with a number of other ultra-endurance races, even ranking in the top 25 athletes in the world in his age group despite the cancer and treatments. He is a globally renowned speaker, an acclaimed author and a radically optimistic human being.
Ryan Hogarth
Owner - Professional Marriage Officers
Ryan Hogarth has been in the wedding industry since 2000 and married over 1800 couples. He is among South Africa's most highly rated and recommended Marriage Officers.
Le-jèan Geluk (AKA Zazu)
Limitless Studios
Limitless Studios is a well groomed radical photography, beauty and make-up application company, our main objective is to expressly partner with the desired vision, having a limitless approach to the specific creative goal entrusted to us.
Limitless Studios believes that there are no limits to our infinite way of thinking allowing us to be uniquely and creatively expressed through our work. Our make-up application and photography sessions are of high and unique quality, we use an extensive range of make-up brands suitable for each individual's skin and a Limitless approach to their photographic vision.
Timothy Lawson Moolman
Tim Moolman Photography
Tim Moolman is a Documentary Photographer, a Multi Award Winning Wedding Photojournalist and has had the privilege of shooting over 400 weddings internationally. This is his 18th year in the wedding and commercial photography fields. He is an Official Fujifilm X Photographer and Litra Ambassador. He has photographed many live music events, the Isle of Man TT, has been appointed as an Official Photographer to the British Royal Family on several occasions, and has even skateboarded with Tony Hawk.
Jenna Shaw
Owner of Hooray Weddings
Jenna is a qualified teacher and admin guru. Together with her sister Christy, they run the show together for Hooray Weddings, a platform that aids brides in wedding planning and facilitates wedding service providers reach out to their target audience. Whether you are looking for incredible service providers in their directory, advice on their blog posts, or shopping for some wedding goodies in the online store, Hooray Weddings has become a popular name across South Africa!
Tamara Jonah - Goka
CEO - Lionheart Events
Lionheart Events, is an international event and lifestyle production company. Led by Tamara Jonah, our President
and Founder, we strive to make each and every event “a work of art.” Thanks to our unique perspective, we have
created memories for hundreds of clients around the world. We specialise in coordinating extraordinary events for
some of the world’s most elite individual and corporate clients.
Paul Thomas Mc Connon
CEO - Unique Speaker Bureau
Co-founder and CEO of Unique Speaker Bureau, Paul established the bureau as a proactive partnership with some of South Africa’s finest professional speakers. Unique Speaker Bureau prides itself on representing great speakers, MC’s and facilitators. USB’s collaborative approach with both speakers and clients results in a conference experience that delivers both return on experience and investment. Because of the quality of thought leadership and the ability to customize the message to the needs of the client, USB’s speakers, MCs and facilitators.
Christina Holt
Founder & Director of Wedding Concepts
Christina Holt - Founder & Director of Wedding Concepts - is regarded as one of Africa's leading luxury wedding experts. Having started Southern Africa's most exclusive wedding & events company Wedding Concepts in 2004 - sister companies Event Concepts & Travel Concepts followed and her businesses now form the luxury brand "The Concepts Collection". Her company plans & designs some of the most high profile nuptials and private celebrations in Southern Africa – counting celebrities, royalty and VIP clients amongst their global & local clientele.
Tim Gunstone
Hotel Tech Booking Company - Hotelplanner Ltd
As Managing Director of Hotelplanner Ltd Tim looks after the UK for one of the world’s biggest bookers of hotel rooms. Hotelplanner books accommodation for the world’s biggest wedding platforms. So we know what wedding couples and guests are looking for.
Alison Kirk
Franchisor - Wedding & Function
I help businesses & companies achieve brand awareness, credibility & leads to increase their sales.I recently bought the Wedding & Function Brand for South Africa, I am now the Franchisor.
I believe that by empowering small businesses in South Africa and marketing them to their niche, our country will thrive!
I believe marketing is the heart of every business! You could offer the best product or service, but if no one has seen or heard of your business how will your sales increase?
Tasneem Hararwala, India
Tasneem kickstarted her journey in psychology after high-school. Since then, she has specialized in the field of forensic psychology with an avid interest in understanding deviant behaviours amongst adults. Her experience of teaching in a university has enhanced her capabilities of facilitating workshops in corporate companies with a focus on making learning fun and experiential. She has recently discovered her passion for understanding the social community at large and working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
Arun Bablani, Dubai
Owner - Vivaah Weddings
With over 12 years of experience, based out of Dubai, UAE, Arun Bablani of Vivaah Weddings is internationally recognized as a luxury wedding planner.
A thorough professional with sound knowledge of operation and efficiencies, he has propelled Vivaah Weddings to greater heights over the last few years. Arun ensures that each and every wedding planned by Vivaah is a paragon of perfection
Tinamarie Rodriguez
CEO - Mstinamariespeaks.com
All of our children can rise beyond societal or self-imposed limits. My goal is to help each girl and boy recognize the power of individuality to achieve success. The unique gifts and treasure found in each child, becomes the responsibility of our communities to encourage their talents and empower them with life skills. For the last 25 years, in the field of education,I was a special education teacher, academic director and childcare owner. As a wisdom coach, I will collaborate with families, peers and communities.
Kevin T. Robertson (KTR)
CEO - Speakerfocus.com
Kevin T. Robertson is a top consummate professional speaker, CEO and Co-founder of Speakerfocus.com. Internationally recognized as America's Leading Focus Expert, Kevin has delivered over 2000 customized leadership programs since 1988. KTR teaches Fortune 500 clients, across the US, toured overseas in 30+ countries like North Africa and Italy. Successful companies like; The International Association of Venue Managers, McDonalds, Burger King, Verizon, and over 100 companies each year invest in his teachings, booking him again and again.
Abby Buchanan
Founder and Editor - One Stiletto At A Time
One Stiletto At a Time is a fashion, beauty and lifestyle blog written
and edited by Abby Buchanan. I’ve always loved the world of fashion
and beauty. Of sharing my own lifestyle and connecting with a
community. Which is why I started one stiletto at a time back in 2010.
While studying my Bcom retail management degree I needed a new
platform to express this love and a place to play around with my
creativity. To write and to share. 10 years later and the blog has grown
exponentially. I’ve started delving more and more into travel and
lifestyle.
Timo Bolte
Floraldesign, Luxury Event Design
Timo Bolte is an atelier that creates ephemeral experiences for events. They uses flowers to transform mood and create ambience. Known as the luxury event florist for a reason: Travelling all over the globe to design the most lavish events. Bold yet simple, with a unique twist on shape and colour, his floral creations have won the hearts of guests, celebrities, critics and even royalty, and put him on the map as an international tastemaker.
Samar Shawareb
Founder & CEO – Arabia Weddings, Jordan
Samar Shawareb is the Founder and CEO of Arabia Weddings.com (www.ArabiaWeddings.com); the leading online wedding planning platform in the Middle East and North Africa. Samar has over 30 years of work experience. She founded Events UnLimited in Jordan in 2001 as a professional event management company producing top quality exhibitions and conferences among which is The Wedding Show (a B2C event).
Amalia Roseti
Founder, Wedding Mission
Fab UK Magazine, London
Amalia Roseti is the founder of Wedding Mission,launched in the 2012 as blog and Italian tv video program as well produced by herself to help brides to be to plan they own dreamy“celebrity wedding day”
She worked with MikeTyson, Coolio, Kaya Jones from the Pussicat Dolls, Jay Santos, Prince Royce, GianlucaVacchi, Rita Ora and many others. Amalia has over than 10 years of experience managing high-end events and bespoke demanding globally, since 2017 she is also Wedding Editor of FabUKMagazine, theEnglish fashion and lifestyle magazine
Steven A. Adelman
Head - Adelman Law Group & VP - The Event Safety Alliance. Arizona, USA
Steven A. Adelman is head of Adelman Law Group, PLLC located in the United States, and Vice President of the Event Safety Alliance, an international association. His law practice focuses on risk and safety at live events throughout North America, and he serves as an expert witness in crowd-related lawsuits.
Steve Adelman is widely recognized as an authority regarding event safety and security.
Ashanti Bentil-Dhue
EventMind and Co-Founder, Diversity Ally, London, UK
Ashanti Bentil-Dhue is an experienced events entrepreneur and speaker. She heads up the team at EventMind, a virtual event management company based in London, UK. She’s also a co-founder of the global network, Black In Events.
Rhiannon Downie
Founder and Editor in Chief, Bride Club ME, Dubai
Rhiannon, Founder of digital publishers Club Media FZE, first came up with the idea behind the Award-Winning website brideclubme.com in 2012. Eight years later, Bride Club ME is now the region’s leading online wedding inspiration website and concierge for brides and grooms in the UAE, also putting on fun and interactive events for readers and vendors alike on a regular basis.She has contributed to various articles published by global entrepreneur websites, newspapers and wedding magazines including The National, Khaleej Times, Time Out Dubai, Good Magazine and Asian Bride, to name just a few.
Lindie Fischer
Co-Founder
of WedReady
of WedReady
Lindie Fischer studied Biochemistry and worked in the Pharmaceutical Industry for 8 years. In 2016 she got engaged and while planning her wedding saw a technological gap in the wedding industry. She decided to switch lanes and became the Co-Founder of WedReady. It is an interactive platform where brides can search, book and pay wedding suppliers, all on ONE platform. It is basically the “AirBnB” for the Wedding industry
Christal van Tonder
Marketing & Sales Executive - WedReady
Christal van Tonder studied fashion design and worked in the fashion and wedding industry for over 10 years. Here she saw small business owners struggling to reach customers. She became interested in digital marketing and the online space. She did a lead generation and digital marketing course with the purpose to start an interactive platform in the wedding industry. Shortly after she joined the WedReady team in 2019. She is passionate about creating an online community in the South African wedding industry
Anthony Rhodman
CEO - Success Epitomized LLC
Dr. Anthony Rhodman is a spiritual psychologist who enhances mental wellness as a personal development trainer and life coach. He is a professional keynote speaker who focuses on removing the misconceptions about our true capabilities. Dr. Rhodman is a leading authority in spiritual psychology and personal achievement, and he uses divinely-inspired techniques to improve mental performance. He is also a subject-matter expert in leadership development and empowerment advancement, which he uses to improve mental health issues.
Flame Newton
CEO - The School of Credit, ATM
Known as the Renaissance Man, Flame Newton is known for his vast knowledge about the credit system in the United States. He wrote the book THE SCHOOL OF CREDIT “Learn & Master the 12 Levels of the American Credit System” to share his knowledge and expertise about the topic and to help people to improve their credit scores and handle their finances better.
Bryan Majors
CEO - Major Prep LLC
Bryan Major is a native of Harrisburg, PA. Bryan graduated from John Harris High School in 2006, where he was the starting point guard for two years for the Harrisburg Cougars and graduated with a 3.8 GPA. His educational journey continued when he was blessed with the opportunity to attend Susquehanna University on an academic scholarship. Bryan graduated from Susquehanna University in 2010 with a 3.6 GPA and he was the first African American male to earn a degree in elementary education from that institution.
Michael Towers
CEO - Speaking Of Your Success
Michael’s passion for helping people is a product of a lifetime experiencing the damaging consequences of mental illness, addiction, and family dysfunction. Michael has turned his pain into his ministry and wants to use his story to help anyone that wants to rewrite theirs.
Michael’s mission is to utilize his expertise in the areas of mental health and chemical dependency counseling to improve the lives of people that suffer. Oftentimes, people struggling with mental illness and addiction cause unintended damage. Hurting people hurt people, and Michael was born with a heart to help hurting people.
Sean Crane
CEO - Sean Michael Crane Fitness
At 23, I was sentenced to 7 years in prison for a crime I didn’t commit. With nothing positive to show for my life up to that point and a massive challenge looming I had a decision to make. Do I give up and let the rest of my life pass me by like the first 23 did or can I face my fears, fight through my pain and pursue the life I’ve always wanted.
From a small cement box I was able to take control of my life. In that cell I started to create the life of my dreams that I am able to live today.
I completely transformed my mentality, my routines, and the results I got in my life.
If I did this from a prison cell, I promise you can take control of your life too!
Laurel Airica
CEO - Word Magic LLC
My abiding fascination with the English language has enabled me to develop great skill in using it to express ideas that make a positive difference in people’s lives.
I specialize in making difficult subjects accessible and dull material interesting; in finding new perspectives from which to view otherwise familiar ideas; in perceiving and articulating previously unseen connections as well as that which seems beyond description; and in conducting penetrating interviews with innovative voices in any given field.
Chrisna Ravyse
CEO - EDvantage
Dr. Chrisna Botha-Ravyse is a seasoned academic researcher, educator and consummate professional speaker. Known by her clients and as “Dr. Chrisa”, she is a nationally recognized wellness expert and Podcast Host. Dr. Chrisna has set herself apart as a subject matter expert in the multi-billion dollar wellness industry. Chrisna earned a PhD in Human Movement Science, written multiple research publications in the field of nutrition, physical activity and health education. She is the founder of “The African Sport Leadership Program” and the CEO of LehChaim.
Ayanna Mills Gallows
CEO - Thanx-A-Mills
Ayanna Mills Ambrose (Gallow), MBA is an International Bestselling Author and 17X Best-selling Author. Ayanna is a Temple University alumni, a native of New York and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia.
Ayanna is also a Hip Hop music enthusiast. Her purpose is to be an intersection between the Bible, (God), and the community, (Hip Hop), in order to help others create success. Her mission is to help others Heal Internal Pain (HIP) so that they can have Happiness, Opportunities and Prosperity (HOP).
Johan Ungerer
Johan Ungerer Signature Events & Weddings
Johan is an accomplished Event planner/Luxury Brands Expert who has built a name for himself and his company Johan Ungerer Signature Events in the South African Events Industry. Johan has over a Decades experience, and has worked in all aspects of the industry.
Johan’s gifts of organization, attention to detail, creative imagination, concept design and contagious enthusiasm have earned him a reputation for unparalleled excellence as an event planner and designer.
Johan will execute your concepts flawlessly while maintaining a pleasant, calm and helpful demeanor to ensure an amazing experience for you and your guests.
Amy Hodgson -Sposabella
Bridal Boutique
Managing Director
When I was a little girl I received a beautiful blank sketch book and I filled its pages with drawings of dresses and different outfits. I had a wild imagination and before I could start any adventure I had to have a clear idea of what my ‘character’ was wearing, and I could only move on to the adventure once I let the outfit idea into the world by drawing it. This is where my love for fashion started.
I completed my fashion and business degree cum laude from the University of Pretoria in 2016.
Robert More
CEO of MORE Family Collection
Robert More is founder and CEO of the MORE Family Collection, which comprises a portfolio of boutique luxury Lodges and Hotels. The Collection was founded in April 2001 with the opening of its first Lodge in Lion Sands Private Game Reserve (then employing just 40 people). Today the operation has expanded to include six lodges and three hotels, from the Cape to Victoria Falls employing 845 amazing people. What gets this Company up a little earlier in the morning is its purpose to create opportunities for its people, and enriching life experiences for its guests.
Charmaine Banks
General Manager, MORE Family Concierge
Charmaine heads up MORE Family Concierge, a dedicated team working behind the scenes to assist guests of MORE Family Collection’s lodges and hotels from their departure to arrival to return home. Dedicated personal Travel Planners to arrange & co-ordinate all aspects of the journey, including flights, meet & greet services, private transfers, personal requirements throughout their stay, are all taken care of on a one-on-one basis.
Charmaine Fivaz
Owner, Tentworx
Establishing a well-known brand over 16 years in the South African Wedding and Events market. Tentworx has been awarded many prestigious contracts under the leadership of Charmaine. To name a few is the CFO Awards – Infrastructure Supply, Ghoema Music Awards – Red Carpet Event, Vonk Music Awards – Gala Dinner, Afrikaans is Groot – Music Show, VIP Area.
Gugu Present
CEO and Co founder of G_CLASSIC HAT
DESIGNER
Passion for hats was inspired by my grandmother who used to work in the
garden throughout the day . I started making hats from plastic ,for her to
protect her from the sun. The love of hats matured and harnessed with the
love of horse racing where most hats were worn for fashion
That led to the birth of G-Classic Hat Designer about four years ago.
All hats are uniquely designed, sculptures for customer satisfaction. Our
goal is to design high quality, exclusive hats that maintains shape and lasts
longer.
Kenneth S. Chan, Kuala Lumpur
Wedding Designer | 大妗 | Emcee
GYHS Events
Currently stationed in Kuala Lumpur in his 10th year in the wedding industry with more than 200 happy couples and satisfied couples.
His achievements; 1st and only wedding chaperone front-page feature by the Malaysia newspaper "The Star" lifestyle section - May 2017. | Author for the upcoming book on Chinese wedding traditions. | Feature speaker by Less than three weddings on "how to upscale your business your business for wedding chaperones." - June 2019
Natacia Maake
CEO and Founder of Tacias Divine Events
I am a 40 year old , divorced mother of 3 ,After 17 years in the corporate business banking sector,In 2016 I finally decided to follow my passion and formally established the company ,and it has been an amazing journey
Of hard work , growth , pain and joy ..
Creating memorable events for or customers both corporate and Private.
Nixi Kennedy
”Under the Oaks”, Dullstroom Country Weddings
I am Nixi Kennedy. I have previously been working in the film industry in Cape Town for 10 years. I worked on big movies and series like Resident Evil, Dark Tower, Homeland and Raised by Wolves, amongst may more. I was in the art department doing either Props or Set dressing. I have now moved back to my family farm, on which I grew up and starting a business of my own, a wedding venue. I think all my skills and experience gained through working in film has given me an invaluable foundation for this endeavor. Apart from the creative aspect, I know what it is to meet deadline and attend to every details.
Sally Arnold
CEO, Sally Arnold Events
Sally Arnold is the CEO of Sally Arnold Events located in Scottsdale, Arizona, in the
United States. She has been designing, planning and implementing award-
winning weddings, corporate and social events throughout the American west for
the past 20 years.
Stephen Van Rensburg
Decor & Flower Worx
My journey in the events industry started quite a while ago.
At the age of 24, I ventured into the unknown as I embarked on a journey to the UK, London to be more specific.
I was fortunate to get a job at the Live Nation, which is the world’s biggest live events and music promoter. And that was the start.
Living in the UK and travelling a lot over the 5 years I was there I discovered a passion for food. So when I made the decision to move back to South Africa it was the ideal opportunity to start fresh and take on another challenge and so I became a Chef at a catering company.
Elfi & Sylvia Boesinger
Owners and CEOs of Yes! exclusive weddings & events and Yes! exclusive flowers
Yes! exclusive weddings & events is a boutique planning agency for events that is focusing on making unforgettable event memories for their customers to last a lifetime. Specialized in destination weddings and events with offices in Germany, the UAE and South Africa, Yes! exclusive weddings is proud to have organized many iconic events since 2008.
Zita De Abreu
Managing Director, 360 Link Events & Wedding Planning
A PASSIONATE THINKER WITH A FIRE IN HER BELLY
The Managing Director, Zita De Abreu, has a passion for conceptualizing and executing events & promotional campaigns.
Whilst still living abroad in the U.K. and wanting to return home, 360 Link was born with the dream of offering clients a solution to their brands under one roof. With more than 14 years of experience within the Promotions, Events, Sales & Marketing industry. This has allowed for a balanced understanding of marketing, sales, promotions, events and account management as well as business development.
Amanda Cunningham
Founder - The Wedding Expo
A motivated entrepreneur and industry leader with over 30 years experience in having established and managed a communications consultancy, a multinational exhibitions company as well as a magazine. Amanda has extensive experience, both in communications as well as running the top wedding exhibition company in South Africa. Amanda started The Wedding Expo in 2001 and has produced 43 expos to date. She has a passion for the bridal industry and the many creative people and companies that she has met over the past 20 years.
Anjaan
Born into a vedic family, Anjaan has been living the yogic ways from the age of 5. He was brought up around palmistry, astrology, mantras, pranayama, ayurveda, and other esoteric practices. From 2006, when he had a Kundalini Awakening, Anjaan has consciously immersed in the traditional spiritual sciences and has ardently studied tantric, vedic and ancient traditions.
He is a certified Massage therapist and a Reiki 3rd Degree healer. He is also a martial arts coach (11th Dan Black Belt), ordained Zen facilitator, and has been trained in multiple healing modalities including polairty therapy, myofascial release and Kundalini Tantra massage.
Arvind Jyot Sabhaney
Event Management Specialist with extensive credentials in managing key accounts. Consistently recognised for exceptional organising & planning capabilities. Creative & resourceful in generating new ideas/concepts. Proficient in conceptualisation & design of entire communication packages, with the ability to provide comprehensive & creative solutions. Aggressive, enthusiastic & energetic self-starter.
Shikha Nahata
Certified Management Accountant (CMA – US )
Event Planner with proven ability to lead efforts in the areas of business strategy planning & development, market research, account acquisition, competitive strategies, & profitability improvement. Possess excellent expertise in business relationship management, inviting corporate sponsorships from renowned organisations. Effectively work both independently & as a team worker.
Flavian Quadric
Founder of Banquet18
founder of banquete18, director of banquete18, persistence and consistence with her work, she has organized small scale, large scale in terms of catering. And one of the most driven caterers in the industry today.
Marinette Dupper
Reservations Manager & Assistant Lodge Manageress.
Born and raised in PE, living in Limpopo and working at Jembisa for the past 6.5 years now. Has helped to arrange 10 wonderful weddings at Jembisa during this time, loved the place so much that she decided to have her own wedding here.
Lorraine Basson
Lodge Manageress
Has worked in the Tourism Industry for many years, have run lodges in Mpumalanga, Hoedspruit, Namibia and currently in Vaalwater Limpopo. Have hosted and arranged numerous weddings.
Yolandi Milne
Owner - BellaBride Kzn
am Yolandi, the very proud owner of BellaBride Bridal Boutique. We opened our doors on the 1 July 2008 in the Upper Highway KZN area.
I married my prince charming in the summer of 1999 and my own journey to find the perfect wedding dress was not as easy as it is today. I had very little options and ended up with having to have my dress made, which was good but, I would have loved having more options to choose from and someone who understood my needs and unique body shape for my perfect dress.
BellaBride has been my little bit of heaven as I am able to offer brides the opportunity to find their ultimate dream dress.
Wade Conway
Co-founder of Conway Photography
We are the Conway Team. A group of ten creatives, who are specialize in film and photography. Ten years ago Zandra sold her car to buy her first camera and started the brand. 8 years ago Wade joined the team and in 2018 we decided to add video to the brand. Today we are so lucky to have such a great team to work with, who all bring talent and passion to everything that they do
Chantal Geddes
Events Manager, Simbithi Country Club
A privately owned, family-oriented country club located on the 430-hectare Simbithi Eco-Estate on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Nestled within the lush natural surroundings of Simbithi, we bring your fairytale to life.
We pride ourselves on giving our clients personal attention, elevating us to one of the area’s most prestigious venues.
Karen de Villiers
Director, Olivelli Bridal
Olivelli was founded 15 years ago. Olivelli has become a well-known name in the wedding industry, known for beautiful quality wedding gowns and excellent service. There are two Olivelli branches, one in Centurion and one in Northcliff.
At Olivelli we love everything about brides. From helping them find their wow dress to playing with veils, jewellery and shoes until the wedding day becomes a dream come true. Let’s spoil you and faff around you and bring you dresses and beautiful things. Feel the excitement. Bring your support team. Let’s do this together, beautiful bride-to-be!
Annie MacKenzie
Owner Designer - The Pyjama Shop
I grew up in Sydney Australia and entered the textile industry in my late teens.
I worked as a buyer for the Coles Myer group and also as a product manager and buyer for Table Eight Australia, and also in manufacturing, sourcing and designing textiles and fashion.
I left Australia to travel for a year and met my husband in Zambia where we lived for 10 years. We moved back to South Africa, his home, in 2006 with our two sons.
In 2015 I started Annie Mac and imported puffer jackets and manufactured dresses and resort wear.
Karabo Ramookho
Marketing Manager - Old Mutual
Karabo is employed as a Strategic Marketing Manager at Old Mutual, with 20 years’
of management and leadership experience spanning across the hospitality, TV
Production and Life Insurance industries.
A passionate speaker on issues of personal finance for women, Karabo hopes to make a
great impact in assisting South African women in building great legacies by applying simple
financial principles in their lives, helping them to understand who they are and how they can
become their exceptional best no matter what stage of life they find themselves in.
Anaïs
Owner, Producer, Director, Presenter, Artist
Anaïs is a singer, songwriter, vocal producer, influencer and international TV host, TV producer
and a founder & director of the Be Your Dream Project and Production House. As a
humanitarian she is the National LifeLine ambassador for South Africa. But most of all she is a
Daughter of the King. Anaïs is an internationally acclaimed artist. As an artist and humanitarian she has been invited
to-, and performed abroad in New York, Pennsylvania, Austria and Namibia. She has also
toured all over South Africa, from Komatipoort to Cape Town.
Siobhan Hook
National Sales Manager Southern Africa
I have worked for some fantastic International and local wine, whiskey and champagne brands in my career and very blessed to have travel to amazing vineyards, distillery’s and cellars in Europe, America, Spain and South Africa meeting Iconic people within the industry. I have currently been working for Anthonij Rupert wines for the last 9 years which is the longest in my career to date.
Candice Morawitz
Regional Marketing Manager, Legacy Hotels & Resorts
studied Hospitality Management at the International Hotel School and graduated in 2006. Events have always been my passion, and this was the reason I decided to pursue a career in this industry. My working career began in banqueting at the old Rosebank Hotel, and from there I joined Legacy Hotels as Sales Co-ordinator. After a couple of years, I had a deep yearning to do events once again, and joined an events company (Epic Events), where we planned mostly corporate events which afforded me the opportunity to meet incredible people, and gave me exposure to diverse venues and event types.
Johan Harley
JEM Exclusive Catering & Events
EM Exclusive Catering and Events provides a complete service, catering equally for corporate functions, multi-day sporting events, 5-star safari catering, launches, private functions and weddings.
Based in Johannesburg, we specialise in off-site catering servicing any region in South Africa and providing our clients with bespoke menu’s.
JEM is the product of a passionate dream of the members who each bring their experience and professional training, combined with their own individual style to the table.
Denver Benn
Self Employed Structural Engineer
I am 58 years old and resides within Little falls, Roodepoort, Gauteng. Been working within the Events sector for 21 years as an inspectorate to ensure that the official regulations are applied. Taking care of all temporary and permanent structures, ensure that it is build as per the approved plan and it is compliant with SANS 10400 Regulations and all Safety standards.
Lana de Jager
Executive Producer
Making dreams come true is my true passion. Creating a life-changing experience for individuals is
my calling. Empowering a team to do this provides me with tremendous gratification.
Working with people has always been a part of my journey, I started as a Journalist many years ago. I
have also, over the years, built up a name as an independent businesswoman. Presently, I take up
the role as executive producer at Be Your Dream.
Hendrik von Wielligh
Regional Marketing Manager, Legacy Hotels & Resorts
My name is Hendrik von Wielligh from C and H entertainment.
I have been in the entertainment industry and DJing at weddings since 2004.
Our passion is to make peoples visions a reality through lights and professional service.
My passion is to make people enjoy the day, and have a picture perfect event.
Johan Botha
Owner and designer, Johan Botha Fashion
Johan Botha Fashion is situated in Tshwane, Gauteng, specializing in Couture handcrafted wedding dresses, unique to each and very Bride to Be.
Our work was seen on several stages, locally and internationally. With our Custome Wedding Gowns have featured in Afrikaans is Groot, Binnelanders, Top Billing.
Numerous celebrities also was featured in various magazines and newspaper articles; won the Bridal Courier category in Las Vegas in 2014, competing against 850 entries.
Projeni Pather
Projeni Pather is Chairperson of AAXO, the Association of African Exhibition Organisers, Spokesperson for the SA Events Council and Managing Director of Exposure Marketing. Her 20-year career in exhibitions and events, her active leadership, and her engaging personality have allowed Projeni to position the exhibition and events industry's challenges and triumphs on national media channels. She is a dynamic leader driven by a passion for collaboration, communication, and innovation.
Susan Greig
Susan greig has been teaching cooking for the last 16 years and prides herself in creating beautifully curated and presented food that is high on flavour and freshness. Susan loves and specialises in a wide range of cooking styles from India to Mexico - and only uses fresh ingredients cooked in the most authentic way to recreate the food history of the region she is showcasing.
She , with partner catherine Joyner, has started an events business specializing in bespoke stylish weddings - where beautiful decor and tablescapes and delicious food are the order of the day .
Mariet Van Niekerk
Magaretha le Roux van Niekerk, better known as Mariet (born 23 June 1989), is the
owner of Bruidsgids (Pty) Ltd. Mariet started working at Adroc, trading as Bruidsgids,
on 3 October 2016 and on 18 June 2018 she bought the business from Jeanetta
Sarah van der Merwe, the founder of the company.
Bruidsgids (Pty) Ltd (www.weddingguide.co.za) publishes two magazines annually,
namely the flagship magazine, Bruidsgids, which is published in December, and
Wedding Guide, which consists mainly of styled shoots and is released early in
August every year.
Marilyn Michau
Financial Advisor and a Marriage Celebrant.
Karen Short
Karen Short may be known for her mouth-watering food, exquisite attention to detail, and talk of
the town parties, but it is the simpler things that make Karen tick. Karen’s happy place is on her
farm in the Midlands, with her four sons, her garden, and beautiful food. She finds inspiration in
interior décor, gardens, traveling, event design, and tasting foreign foods. Karen not only loves
cooking, but loves eating too, which contributes to the unblemished reputation that By Word of
Mouth has
Alison Abdo and Leigh Herringer
Leigh has worked in the magazine industry for 20 years. She edited Food & Home Entertaining and Wedding Inspirations magazines, both of which portrayed the best of South African entertaining and translated global lifestyle trends for the local market. Alison handled marketing and events within the magazine and corporate industries and was an entrepreneur in the retail space. As longtime friends who both love gathering family and friends around their tables, Ali and Leigh’s Instagram page @thetickledgiraffe depicts their passion for food and entertainment
Why Associate with us?
- One of its kind, the World's first 3D virtual Wedding Expo conducted online. Hence, we are the pioneer in this
- Post COVID-19, the tourism industry will flourish again, and therefore this virtual event would help increase traction to this hard hit industry
- Vital introduction and exposure on the functionality and accessibility of virtual event platforms during this time
- Reaching remote places such as Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities post COVID-19 through virtual engagement on the ESPOUSAL platform
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Testimonials for First-ever online wedding expo - Espousal Online
"On behalf of the Vivaah Weddings Team, I want to personally congratulate you all for the tremendous success of the recently concluded Espousal Online.
Thank you so much for all your hard work, your flexibility and diligence in pulling together a very successful event. That’s quite an achievement given the complexity of the current situation yet you manage to rise to the occasion and delivered a well thought out event.
It was indeed a pleasure working with you. We hope to have the opportunity to work with you again in the future."
"The event seems to have comprehensively covered many aspects involved in marriage including wedding planning, fashion and Jewellery, not just the glamour and the glitter of the wedding but also deeper issues such as what makes or breaks relationships.
It was conducted very professionally and with great efficiency. As panelists we felt valued and respected by the organizers Mr Arvind and his co-partner. They ably assisted us for conducting the panel discussion smoothly. "
"We experienced something very unique and a totally different concept.
It gave us an opportunity to learn something new in this digital world and also to understand how these digital platforms are run.
You put together a slew of celebrities from across the globe to be part of this theme" Marriage', which has given a totally different dimension to this event."
"I found Shikha to be very professional, courteous and showed efficiency in her work. The Interview she conducted with me was done with sensitivity and warmth and as an organizer of the mega event, she reflected confidence and commitment."
Thank you so very much for allowing wedding & Function to be a part of Espousal South Africa. It was put together so well and very well organized. I hope that this will become an annual event.
Working with Espousal has been an amazing experience. I have worked in the conference industry for 28 years and Espousal offers ideas and solutions that are as innovative as any that I've experienced. From our first strategy call, to the end of the event, and every email in between the process was seamless and professional. When choosing a company to entrust the most important events in your life to, make sure you select a company built on character. I have worked with over 2000 event planners and conference coordinators and if I had my pick it would be Shikha and Arvind every time!
