We love planning events for clients that choose our sunny shores for their celebrations and it was no different with Bodun. He got in touch with us in October 2018 and gave us a brief we just couldn’t resist!
Crafting a Cape Town Welcome: A 50th Birthday Celebration
Our client, Bodun, based in the UK, wanted to celebrate his 50th birthday in style with a three-day event in Cape Town, a city he had never visited before. He entrusted Event Affairs with creating a flawless itinerary for his 70 international guests. We began with a magnificent welcome dinner, introducing guests to the city’s unique charm and vibrant culture.
An African-Inspired Welcome Dinner
To give the guests an authentic introduction to South Africa, we planned an African-inspired dinner at the stunning Ballroom at the One & Only Hotel. We balanced local tradition with a chic, cosmopolitan flair in the decor. Geometric vases filled with native flora and fauna complemented the vibrant Shwe-Shwe base plates, and we styled each table in a different color. Even local vegetables became part of the elegant table decor.
A Night of Music, Food, and Celebration
The evening’s entertainment began with a warm welcome from the Abavuki Marimba Band as guests arrived, setting a festive tone. Inside the ballroom, an abundant buffet-style dinner awaited them. The menu was a showcase of diverse culinary delights, including:
- Honey grilled chicken citrus salad
- Sautéed crab with avocado salad
- Grilled line fish medallions
- Peppercorn-crusted short beef ribs
- Moroccan lamb tagine
- Caramel popcorn éclairs
- Pecan pie with maple cream
Despite our expectations that guests might be tired and jetlagged from their travels, they were ready to celebrate. The night was a high-energy affair, with Bodun’s personal DJ, DJ Lakayz, pumping out Nigerian music that kept guests dancing all night long. This opening night proved that great music and a vibrant atmosphere can overcome any travel fatigue, setting a dynamic tone for the rest of the celebration.
Private Events Cape Town
Planning a private event or looking for the perfect, uniquely South African holiday experience to celebrate your special occasion? Our team will be with you every step of the journey. Our skilled event planners will help you plan your private event or luxury holiday to South Africa with ease. From planning, conceptualising, and building your itinerary, to running your special event on the day – our event planners will be there to ensure that your celebration is a success and that you have an experience of a lifetime! After all, what is life without holidays and celebrations to look forward to?

