Donnovan & Charnes Love Story
Donnovan and Charne’s story began in 2017 when they met—but in reality, it started a little earlier when Charne’s dad couldn’t stop talking about her during meetings. As one of Donnovan’s clients, he often mentioned his daughter, which naturally sparked Donnovan’s curiosity. So, he did what anyone would do in the digital age—he looked her up on Facebook and, as Charne likes to say, did a little bit of “stalking.” Feeling brave, he sent her a message. But fate had other plans—Charne didn’t reply. A week passed, and instead of giving up, Donnovan called her dad and (very unconvincingly) claimed he had sent the message by accident. Of course, no one believed that! Three months went by, and on Father’s Day 2017, Charne’s dad finally took matters into his own hands. “Shame, man. Just message Donnovan back—there’s no harm in being friends,” he told her. So, she did. For two months, they chatted non-stop, but every time Donnovan asked Charne on a date, she declined. Finally, after one last attempt, just as Charne was about to cancel again, Donnovan put his foot down: “Too late! I already booked a table at Tribes in Emperors Palace for Friday.” Feeling guilty, she agreed to go. But when they arrived, the place was completely empty! A moment they still laugh about to this day. From that moment on, Donnovan fought every single day to win Charne’s heart. And when she finally realized she had fallen for him, there was no turning back. Their journey hasn’t always been easy, but somehow, they have always found their way back to each other. If their full love story were written, it would be an entire book. They saved each other, they complete each other, and their love is like no other!
Wedding Party
Meet our lovely family and friends who will by the side of the Bride an Groom on the big day.
Chantelle Taylor
Matron of Honor Where do I even start? Chantelle isn’t just my sister—she’s my built-in best friend, my greatest confidant, and the person I turn to for everything. We’ve shared a lifetime of memories, secrets, and unbreakable bonds. She’s been my shoulder to cry on, my voice of reason, and my biggest supporter. I can’t imagine going through life without her, and words will never be enough to express how much I love her. Having her by my side on this day means everything to me.
Sumandi Janse van Rensburg
Maid of Honor Sumandi and I have been best friends for 27 years—since we were just six years old! Our friendship has always been effortless, filled with laughter, endless conversations, and a deep understanding of one another. She is my rock, my soul sister, and the one person who knows me better than I know myself. No matter where life takes us, we always find our way back to each other. I couldn’t imagine this day without her standing right beside me.
Marie Ellof
Bridesmaid Marie and I met in the most unexpected way, but from that moment, she became an irreplaceable part of my life. She has the biggest heart, always showing up when I need her—whether it’s for support, laughter, or looking after my beloved cats. Fun fact: Marie only started drinking after meeting me (I like to think I broadened her horizons!). She is one of the strongest and kindest people I know, and I am so lucky to have her as my friend.
Maryke Gerber
Bridesmaid Maryke and I have been friends for over 15 years, but in the past few years, our bond has grown into something truly special. She’s the friend I can turn to for advice, a good laugh, or a heartfelt chat when I need it most. She brings so much warmth and wisdom into my life, and I am incredibly grateful to have her as part of this journey.
Cameron Vasconcelles
Bridesmaid Cameron—my little sister, my lifelong sidekick, and now an incredible young woman I am so proud of. Growing up, she always looked up to me, but today, I look up to her just as much. She is strong, kind, and has a heart of gold. Having her stand beside me on my wedding day is an honor, and I can’t wait to share this moment with her.
Steven Taylor
Best Man Where do I even begin? Steven is more than just a best friend—he’s family. Our friendship is built on years of loyalty, trust, and countless unforgettable memories. He’s always been someone I could rely on, and soon, he’ll officially be my brother-in-law. But the truth is, he’s been like a brother to me long before that. I couldn’t imagine standing at the altar without him by my side.
Wainne Louwsma
Groomsman My brother, my lifelong partner in crime. Wainne has been by my side through everything—good times, bad times, and all the crazy moments in between. There’s no one else who understands me quite like he does, and I’m lucky to have him as both my brother and my friend. Having him stand with me on my wedding day means the world.
Wade Dick
Groomsman Wade and I have been friends for what feels like a lifetime. From the moment we met, we just clicked, and over the years, our friendship has only grown stronger. He’s the kind of guy who’s always up for a good time, but more importantly, he’s always there when you need him. I’m grateful to have him as a friend and honored to have him as a groomsman.
Mike Janse van Vuuren
Groomsman Mike is not just my business partner—he’s a true friend and, honestly, like a brother to me. We’ve built more than just a business together; we’ve built a bond based on trust, respect, and plenty of laughs along the way. Whether it’s work or life, I know I can confide in him, and I’m grateful to have him standing beside me on this special day.
Jud Salton
Groomsman Judd and I became friends without even realizing it was happening—it was just natural. Our bond grew effortlessly, and before we knew it, we had a solid friendship that feels like it’s always been there. He’s the kind of friend who brings laughter, loyalty, and a sense of adventure to every situation. I’m proud to have him as part of this day.
Duane Vasconcelles
Groomsman Duane is not just my brother-in-law—over time, our bond has grown into something truly special. What started as family turned into a solid friendship filled with laughs, good times, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s sharing a joke, having a deep conversation, or just enjoying a great time together, Duane always brings an easygoing and fun energy wherever he goes. He’s someone I can always count on, and I’m grateful to have him not just as family, but as a friend standing by my side on this big day.
Schedule
Saturday 8 November 2025
4:00pm
Louwsma Wedding
While we love your little ones, our wedding will be an adults-only celebration, with the exception of immediate family children. We appreciate your understanding and can’t wait to celebrate with you!
attire: Please wear formal attire, preferably black with a touch of champagne gold, for the wedding.
Monate Game Lodge Weddings
Portion 1, Farm Witkoppies Tuinplass Modimolle, 0510, South Africa
Accommodation - Monate Game Lodge
Booking Request: To make your booking, please send an email to weddings@monatelodge.com with the following information: - Number of nights you'll be staying. - Number of people you're booking for. - Whether you’ll be joining us for the Friday dinner and Hippo drive. - Subject line should be the wedding date (8 November 2025) and Charne & Donnavan's name. Pro-Forma Invoice: After they receive your email, they will send you a Pro-Forma Invoice with the banking details and the reference number to use when making your payment. You’re welcome to start making monthly payments towards your stay. Please ensure that you use the specified reference to help them correctly allocate the payment. Book Directly (saving costs): The rate is R1 600 per person per night incl. Breakfast Friday Night Dinner | R306 per person Friday Sundowners | R240 per person There is a 14km gravel road. If possible, please use an SUV or a bakkie for the drive. The gate password is 0811#
Our Honeymoon Fund
Should you wish to honour us with a gift, we have set up a honeymooon fund for your convenience. It allows you to contribute in a way you know will truly make our journey together special.
Account name: CHARNE DU TOIT Account Number: 9252468934 Branch code: 632005 Account Type: SAVING
RSVP
The favour of your response is requested as soon as end of August 2025.
Share your photos with us
We would love to create a beautiful collage of memories at our wedding, and we invite you to be a part of it! Feel free to capture special moments at the wedding itself and share them with us – whether it's during the event or in the days that follow. Your snapshots will add even more joy to our celebration. Let's make our wedding day a collection of love and shared memories!