FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What do you require from us in order to book our wedding date of choice?
We are happy to hold your booking for 7 days from date of quotation. A 50% non refundable deposit is required no later than 7 days to confirm your function. This may be paid by cash, or electronic transfer to our bank account. Upon payment of the deposit, the proof of payment and agreement / terms & conditions must be forwarded to Umtamvuna River Lodge. Should written confirmation, the deposit as well as a signed copy of the terms and conditions not be received before this date, we reserve the right to release your booking.
Is there alternative accommodation available that is close by for guests? Is there a taxi service available?
There is plenty accommodation nearby, some less than a kilometer away. Simply ask for an accommodation list or weblink as well as the contact details of a taxi service, should you require this.
When can we expect our recon and breakage deposit to be returned?
We aim to arrange this as soon as possible after the wedding has taken place. It will be no later than one month after the wedding date.
What does the staff gratuity/service fee cover and for which items is it applicable?
This simply covers tips for the hardworking staff who are dedicated to making your wedding a success. The percentage applies to all food and beverages served on your wedding day, including snack platters and any bar tab. It is wise to take this into consideration. It will be reflected on your final invoice one month before the wedding date.
What is the corkage fee?
he corkage fee is R45 per 750ml bottle of wine or champagne. We do not allow any other type of alcohol to be brought in.
What is the best time of year to get married (weather-wise)?
While it is impossible to predict the weather on a day-to-day basis, we can tell you that generally summer holds more rainfall than winter in this region. Winters are mild and mostly clear. November and December are quite rainy although there are beautiful sunny days too, and January and February are the hottest and most humid months of the year on average.
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March, April, May, June and July would be our safest options weather wise.
Unfortunately we cannot refund you any venue fees based on the weather; although we will refund you for the boat hire as well as bonfire option provided it is cancelled the morning of the wedding. if you have pre-booked these and due to unforseen circumstances not able to utilise this option.
Is breakfast included in the wedding package for guests?
No, If breakfasts are required please make prior arrangements with our wedding team.
We are only having 50 guests or so. Can the venue fees be reduced for us?
We cannot bring the venue hire fee down based on the amount of guests, as we offer no more than one wedding per weekend with exclusive use of the venue. Where you will save is on your menu, as this is charged per head.
May we use your antique wooden tables and chairs under a Nomadik Tent/Marquee on the beach/beach deck/garden?
Unfortunately not. As they are handmade antiques we do not allow them to be moved. For receptions that are not held on the main deck, you would need to hire in alternative tables and chairs. Please ask our wedding co-ordinator to organise the best quotes from our preffered suppliers.
Can we put up a stretch tent in the garden or over your beach deck?​​
Yes we can even assist getiing better quotes from our local and frequently used and trusted suppliers
Do we have exclusive use of the venue for our wedding day?
Yes, you and your guests will enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of the venue. We will never run another event the same day as your wedding. Boat cruises do still run in the mornings for other guests however there is a strict cut off 1 hour before your function begins.
When do you need our final numbers and menu choices?
These details should be finalized at least six weeks before your wedding date. This is when your final invoice will be sent. Please arrange a meeting with our team before finalising any menu choices so that we can advise and offer suggestions if necessary.
Is there a self catering option?
Yes there is. There is a surcharge of R8000 and a kitchen hire refundable deposit of R2500
Are the strip draping and fairylights on the main deck inclusive?
What about the draping of the arch/gazebo for the ceremony
These are additional extras, as not everyone opts for these. If you are interested in these, please ask us for prices.
May we set a bar tab? What is a good limit to set?
You may set a full or partial bar tab, or have a cash bar. If you set a tab, then on the night, when the limit is almost reached, we will notify you and you can decide what to do from there (go onto cash bar or you may decide to add more to the tab.) You may specify which drinks you would like on your tab; ask us for a bar list closer to the time.
As each set of guests is unique it is hard for us to dictate what limit is fair. A good way to work out how much your tab should be is to ask yourself how much you would be willing to spend on drinks per guest ( R200? R250? R300?) and then multiply that amount by the amount of confirmed guests.
May we mix and match between serving styles for the courses- say, have a platter starter, a buffet main and a plated dessert?
You are welcome to do so. It makes for a more interesting and appealing menu. If you are opting for a plated course, please do not offer more than two choices to your guests to minimize complications. We do need the number of the options beforehand, as well as a seating chart so that we can provide the right guest with their preferred plated course choice.
Can weddings of over 150 guests take place at Umtamvuna River Lodge?
Yes, we have held some beautiful large weddings here.
You would need to hire in a garden marquee/ Nomadic stretch tent, as our decks are not large enough to accommodate that amount of guests. You would also need to hire in tables and chairs for reception and chairs for your ceremony, which you may still hold on the river beach. You would need to hire in additional table linen, crockery, cutlery and glass wear as well. Our wedding co-ordinator will can get the best quotes from reliable service providers as we are constantly working together with them.
Click on link to find out more about Stretch Tents
May we mix and match between serving styles for the courses- say, have a platter starter, a buffet main and a plated dessert?
You are welcome to do so. It makes for a more interesting and appealing menu. If you are opting for a plated course, please do not offer more than two choices to your guests to minimize complications. We do need the number of the options beforehand, as well as a seating chart so that we can provide the right guest with their preferred plated course choice.