JOIN US FOR THE WEDDING OF

SKIP THE FAFF

you are

• Invited •

WHAT?

The Wedding of
Tarien Basson & Liam Barclay Kirby

When?

04 October 2025
14:30 for 15:00

Where?

Deannie Landgoed
Vlaeberg Rd, Stellenbosch

our

• Story •

They say everything happens for a reason — and while that didn’t feel true on Tarien’s first day at a very challenging new job, it turned out to be the start of the best thing that ever happened to her. Because that’s the day she met Liam.

Liam had been with the company for about five years, recently transitioning into the development team. Tarien was starting her first ‘big girl’ job as the new graphic designer — actually stepping into Liam’s former position. 

Their first meeting wasn’t exactly a fairy tale moment. Liam arrived a little late, sunglasses still on, looking every bit the mystery man. Tarien said a shy hello, and he responded with a typical cool dude nod before walking off. That’s it. And yet… something was set in motion.

They became friends quickly. What began as casual conversations soon turned into a meaningful connection. After a couple of months in the “talking” phase, it was at a birthday braai for Tarien’s close friend (and now bridesmaid), Anemien, that things took a turn. Anemien cornered Liam and asked, “So… when are you making it official?” To which Liam casually replied, “I thought it was official.” That night, he asked Tarien to be his girlfriend — and on October 3rd, 2021, they officially started their journey together.

Falling in love felt easy in a way neither of them had experienced before. After navigating their fair share of difficult relationships, this one felt different — peaceful, safe, and completely natural. There was no guessing, no pretending — just two people meeting each other exactly as they are, and choosing to love what they found.

At first, it was Liam’s quiet and mysterious presence that caught Tariens attention. But soon, she discovered his kind heart — the way he makes everyone feel at home, how he deeply cares for the people around him, and how easily he connects with anyone. Liam was drawn in by her laugh, and he never stopped falling for the warmth and kindness behind it.

For Liam, it was Tarien’s laugh that first drew him in. As he puts it:
 “Her laugh instantly made me feel at home. She was a light I didn’t know I needed until I found it. The joy and happiness she brings into every room with her kindness and her heart made me see just how special she was as a person.”

On April 13th, 2024, Liam planned a day out at Warwick Wine Farm with their dog, Alfie. With his tripod in hand, he casually suggested getting a few cute photos “for Instagram.” As the camera was snapping away, he asked Tarien to adjust Alfie’s bandana — and that’s when she saw the words: “Will you marry my dad?” When she turned around, Liam was on one knee.

It was the easiest yes she ever gave.

Since then, they’ve continued to grow together — through every season, challenge, and celebration. Their love is grounded in kindness, shared laughter, and the deep joy of being fully known and completely accepted. Now, they can’t wait to celebrate this next chapter with all the people who mean the world to them.

the

• Details •

WELCOME
Guest start arriving
Join us in the little forest at the bottom of the lawn, right next to the lake. Look out for the white door – that’s the entrance to our ceremony.

WE DO

Wedding Ceremony
Surrounded by trees and people we love, we’ll say “I do” – the start of forever. Find your seat, soak in the moment, and get ready to witness a little magic.

WE DRINK
Cocktails & Canapes
Head to the lawn beneath the weeping willows for relaxed drinks and light bites by the lake. While you mingle, the bridal party will sneak off for photos.

WE PARTY!
Guest start finding their seats
Make your way up to the white building on the hill. Dinner will be served around 19:00, followed by speeches and dancing!

WELCOME
Guest start arriving
Join us in the little forest at the bottom of the lawn, right next to the lake. Look out for the white door – that’s the entrance to our ceremony.

WE DO

Wedding Ceremony
Surrounded by trees and people we love, we’ll say “I do” – the start of forever. Find your seat, soak in the moment, and get ready to witness a little magic.

WE DRINK
Cocktails & Canapes
Head to the lawn beneath the weeping willows for relaxed drinks and light bites by the lake. While you mingle, the bridal party will sneak off for photos.

WE PARTY!
Guest start finding their seats
Make your way up to the white building on the hill. Dinner will be served around 19:00, followed by speeches and dancing!

the

• dress code •

Cocktail/Semi-formal

Our dress code is cocktail / semi-formal, but honestly — wear whatever makes you feel good (as long as it’s not white. If you show up in white, we can’t guarantee the bridal party won’t “accidentally” spill a little red wine your way).

If you’d like to coordinate with the wedding colours (because we know some of you love a theme), here’s a little inspiration:

That said, we have enough to worry about on the day — so whether you’re dressed to the nines or just looking snazzy in your Sunday best, we’re just happy to have you there.

the

• Gifts •

Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for

We mean it. We’re just so excited to celebrate with the people we love most.

That said, if you’d like to bless us with something extra, we’d really appreciate a contribution to our honeymoon fund. We’re dreaming of a beautiful getaway together (and maybe a few umbrella drinks with our names on them). Think of it as helping us kick off married life with some unforgettable memories.

We do have a small registry for those who prefer giving a physical gift — but honestly, your love, laughter, and a few dance moves on the night mean the world to us.

meet the

• bridal party •

They’ve seen us at our best, our worst, and everything in between — and somehow still agreed to stand beside us on our big day!

From childhood friends to partners-in-crime and life’s biggest cheerleaders, these incredible humans have played a special role in our story. Whether they’ve been there since day one or joined the ride along the way, we’re so lucky to have them by our side as we say “I do.”

Get to know the legends who’ll be wrangling us down the aisle, fixing veils, fluffing suits, and dancing like no one’s watching

I’ve known Chris since we were about 4 or 5, and he’s been like a brother ever since. Always up for an adventure, always someone you can count on, and somehow always better than you at whatever you try. Whether we’re competing or laughing until it hurts, he’s the guy you want in your corner — and I couldn’t imagine this day without him standing by my side.

Chris Hawkridge

Best Man

From changing my diapers as a baby to being my soundboard as an adult, Lien has been there to love and support me through every stage of life. As a baby I couldn’t sleep without her, and as an adult I can’t tie the know without her next to me.

Chelene Wigget

Bridesmaid

We’ve been partners in crime since Grade 9, causing chaos in maths class because we were talking and laughing way too much. From foolish giggling over boys we had crushes on, to planning our weddings together, this friendship means the world to me.

Jessica Leibbrandt

Bridesmaid

We met in university, bonding over all-nighters and looming deadlines. The pressure forged a friendship that’s now one of my strongest — and honestly, a week isn’t complete without at least one 10-minute voice note from her.

Anemien Smith

Bridesmaid

The newest member of the Basson family — and finally the sister I was asking for when my parents had my brother! I’m so grateful and honored to have a sister standing next to me on this special day.

Phillize Basson

Bridesmaid

I’ve known Anje since I was little — we’ve been on camping trips together forever. She told me being a bridesmaid was too much pressure, but I couldn’t imagine my wedding without her… so flowergirl she became!

Anje Basson

Flowergirl

I’ve known Carli since she was a baby with the cutest little chubby cheeks. Now she’s all grown — but hopefully not too cool to be my flowergirl! I’ve always known that when the day comes, I want her to lay the path for me to walk down the aisle.

Carli Smit

Flowergirl

I’ve known Emmy since she was little and always knew I wanted her by my side on the big day. With her big smile and sunshine curls, I’m sure she’ll put a smile on everyone’s faces before I even walk down the aisle!

Emily SMit

Flowergirl

frequently asked

• questions •

Can I bring a plus one?

We’d love to celebrate with everyone, but due to space and budget, we’re keeping things intimate — so only guests named on the invitation are invited. Thanks for understanding!

We adore your little ones, but the day is mostly adults-only. The only children attending will be close family. We hope this gives you a chance to relax and enjoy the day with us!

Yes! If you’d like to give a gift, we’ve put together a registry with a few things we love. You can find it [here].

After the ceremony, join us for cocktails and canapés on the lawn. Dinner will be served around 19:00, with wine provided at each table. We’ll also have an open bar for the rest of the night, so bring your thirst (and your dance moves)!

No problem at all — please let us know any dietary needs when you fill out the RSVP form below, and we’ll make sure you’re taken care of.

Both the ceremony and cocktail hour will be held outdoors, in the forest and on the lawn by the lake. The reception will move indoors for dinner and dancing.

Can I tag you on social media?

Yes, please! We’d love to see your photos — just use our hashtag: #KirbyMakietie so we can relive the magic after the big day.

Absolutely. Come ready to dance — we’re planning a proper celebration!

Please arrive by 14:30 so you have time to find the ceremony space and get settled before we begin at 15:00.

Deannie Landgoed
Vlaeberg Rd, Stellenbosch, Cape Town, 7600
The ceremony will take place in the little forest near the lake, and the reception will be up the hill in the white building.

Cocktail / semi-formal.
Think stylish and elegant, but not black-tie. You’ll be on grass for part of the day, so maybe skip the stilettos — but feel free to dress up and feel your best.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to either one of us below :

Bride – 072 318 8877
Groom – 083 502 9807

time to

• rsvp •

We’re so excited to celebrate with you!

Please let us know if you’ll be joining us by RSVPing before the 4th of September 2025.
 Each guest must RSVP separately under their own name — no group responses, please.
 If we haven’t received your RSVP by the deadline, we’ll assume (with heavy hearts) that you won’t be able to make it.

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