Seasonal Wedding Guide: Best Times to Get Married at Riverside Country Estate.
- jordan2107
- Aug 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 11
Are you wondering, “When is the best time to get married in Gauteng?” Or maybe you’re searching for a wedding venue with river views that changes beautifully with the seasons?
At Riverside Country Estate, each season brings its own magic. Whether you envision a summer garden wedding, a cosy winter indoor reception, or a romantic autumn ceremony by the river, our estate offers year-round beauty just outside Johannesburg.
In this seasonal wedding guide, we’ll walk you through the best times to get married at Riverside, what to expect weather-wise, and how to make the most of each season’s natural charm.
Summer Weddings (December - February)
Is summer a good time to get married in Gauteng?
Absolutely - Summer at Riverside Country Estate brings vibrant energy and lush greenery. This means warm temperatures and long sunny days. This is the perfect season for an outdoor wedding by the river, with golden sunsets creating a dreamy backdrop. However, summer can bring high temperatures and occasional thunderstorms, so consider a shaded ceremony area or an evening reception to keep guests cool.
Why Choose a Summer Wedding?
Weather: Expect warm to hot temperatures, often with afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly, leaving fresh air and stunning sunsets.
Aesthetics: The gardens are in full bloom, offering a colourful backdrop. The river sparkles, adding a luxurious natural backdrop to your ceremony and photos.
Summer Wedding Tips:
Hydration: Provide plenty of water, fans and shaded areas for guests.
Timing: Schedule your ceremony for late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Pest Control: We take measures, but outdoor summer events can sometimes attract insects.
Best For:
☀️ Riverfront and outdoor ceremonies with a summer glow
🍹 Garden/Lawn games & Pre-reception Gin bars
🌅 Stunning sunset photography
Autumn Weddings (March - May)
What’s the most comfortable season for a wedding? This season is ideal if you want comfortable weather without the intense summer heat. Autumn offers the perfect balance of mild weather and romantic scenery - it’s one of our most recommended times to get married.
Why Choose an Autumn Wedding?
Weather: Mild and pleasant temperatures, with less humidity than summer. The days are generally clear and sunny.
Aesthetics/colours: The trees around the estate display beautiful shades of golds, oranges, and rich reds. This season offers a sophisticated and naturally elegant palette - ideal for timeless wedding photos.
Autumn Wedding Tips:
Sunset: Plan your ceremony earlier to catch the daylight before sunset. Sunsets occur earlier, so plan your ceremony and photography accordingly.
Cooler Evenings: While days are warm, evenings can get chilly, so advise guests to bring a light wrap or plan for outdoor heaters or fire pits.
Best For:
🍁 Warm, earthy color palettes
💃 Comfortable temperatures for dancing the night away
📸 Golden-hour photography among the trees
Winter Weddings (June - August)
Are winter weddings in South Africa a good idea? Yes! South African winters are generally dry, making this a cost-effective and romantic time for indoor weddings. South African winters have less chance of rain, making it a great season for intimate indoor weddings with cosy fireplaces, candlelit receptions, and stylish winter fashion. A winter wedding can feel incredibly elegant and romantic. Plus, venues and vendors may offer off-season discounts!
Why Choose a Winter Wedding?
Weather: Clear skies and cool air - great for photography and vendor availability.
Aesthetics: The landscape is stark and beautiful, offering a dramatic backdrop. The river flow is often calmer, reflecting the crisp light. Warm lighting creates a magical ambience.
Winter Wedding Tips:
Indoor Focus: Plan for most activities to be indoors or in sheltered areas with heating.
Lighting: Enhance the mood with strategic lighting, candles, and fire drums. Perhaps a hot chocolate bar.
Guest Comfort: Communicate that guests should dress warmly.
Best For:
❄️ Chic indoor receptions with warm lighting
🍷 Mulled wine & cosy, intimate vibes
💰 Budget-friendly options from vendors
Spring Weddings (September - November)
When is peak wedding season in South Africa?
Spring is one of the most popular seasons for weddings at Riverside Country Estate, and for good reason! It is a time of renewal and blossoming beauty at Riverside Country Estate. The venue bursts back to life with fresh greenery and blooming flowers. It's also a great time for outdoor ceremonies before the summer heat arrives.
Why Choose a Spring Wedding?
Weather: Increasingly warmer days with pleasant temperatures.
Aesthetics: The gardens awaken with new growth and early blooms. The air is fresh and vibrant, signalling new beginnings.
Spring Wedding Tips:
Book early - venues fill up fast during this high-demand season.
Use florals that reflect the natural spring colour palette around you.
Best For:
🌸 Garden weddings with romantic floral setups
🌞 Mild, comfortable weather
🐦 A naturally picturesque, romantic setting
Frequently Asked Questions for Wedding Planning at Riverside Country Estate
When is the best month to get married at Riverside Country Estate?
It depends on your style! March–May and September–November are the most popular seasons for perfect weather. For bold sunsets and lush scenery, December–February is ideal. For a more budget-friendly wedding, consider a winter date.
Is Riverside Country Estate a good venue for outdoor weddings?
Yes - we’re known for our stunning river view ceremony spots, lush gardens, and Open Air Chapel, perfect for outdoor weddings in Gauteng.
Does Riverside offer indoor venues for winter weddings?
Absolutely. Willow Hall and Wisteria Hall are cosy, elegant indoor spaces with heating and ambient lighting - ideal for creating a warm, intimate winter wedding.
Can we have a river view ceremony at any time of year?
Yes! Our venue’s riverside charm is present all year, with each season offering unique photo backdrops - from summer sparkle to autumn colours and misty winter romance.
No Matter the Season, Your Dream Wedding Starts at Riverside Country Estate
At Riverside Country Estate, we make every season magical. With the perfect balance of natural beauty, customisable indoor and outdoor spaces, and dedicated wedding coordinators, your big day will be as effortless as it is unforgettable.
Ready to find your perfect wedding date?
Book a private venue tour today and discover what makes Riverside one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Gauteng with river views.
078 434 8457
Grootvaly, Springs, Gauteng
Comments