A spark, a witty e-mail and love forever

HEMAL Chanderdhev, 32, of Greytown and Eshari Singh, 30, of Durban, moved to Joburg to further their finance careers. They married at Shepstone Gardens in Houghton in November. HOW WE MET

Our siblings were friends and planned a dinner in 2008. I was working in the North West and visiting Joburg for the weekend, while Eshari had just moved to the city. There was a spark at dinner.

I asked for her e-mail address on the pretext of sharing study notes as we were doing the same course. After some witty e-mails, I finally convinced her to go out on a date with me. THE PROPOSAL & WEDDING

We wanted an intimate, relaxed wedding ceremony and pooled resources to make it happen.

The ceremony began in the gardens, with canapés served on the lawns while guests mingled. The reception was held in the Glass Marquee. We opened the dance, choreographed to a medley of Bollywood songs. WEDDING BLACK BOOK Elegant Brides. Shoba. Tyrone Crossman. Xavier Saer.

Bride’s outfit: Hair and make-up: Photographer: Videography: Stage decor and lighting:

Events by Anesh. Priest: Vinay Misser. Catering: Thava Norwood. Xclusive Sound/DJ: Dostana. Cake: Jenna’s Cake Boutique. Choreography: Sashin Rob Kandhai. Florist: Rams. BIGGEST CHALLENGE

We dreamed of a garden wedding, but a dark cloud hung over our heads. There had been heavy rains that week, so our co-ordinator recommended plan B. We would not compromise. Fortunately, God provided a sunny day. VIEWS ON LOVE AND MARRIAGE

We don’t believe in a prescription, but take each day as it comes and try to get the basics right.

To us, love is like a flame: we protect it from being extinguished by holding our hands around it.