Welcome Garden Party

Wedding Day

The Day After: Pool Party & Braai

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Our Wedding

It all started in Dublin with a dating app and a response to a prompt about one of John Denver’s best tunes that simply read: “WEST VIRGINIA!!!” From the first few messages, there was an easy spark, effortless banter, and that feeling that maybe this was something special. As has often been the case in their relationship, they began talking while in two different countries. They spent a few weeks chatting, laughing, and getting to know each other from afar until one day, while waiting for a locksmith after finding himself locked out of his apartment, Grant decided to FaceTime Talia to pass the time. While seated outside on a sidewalk in Dublin, he 'met' Talia for the first time through a phone screen. Before they knew it, they’d been talking for a just longer than it takes a Dublin locksmith to arrive — four hours, to be exact. A few weeks later, Grant returned to Dublin, and they finally met properly. With one of his future Groomsman, Kayser, visiting Dublin, they arranged a casual meet-up — two friends meeting two friends at The Camden. And so Talia walked in. The evening turned into one of those perfect nights that just flows— it felt like they’d known each other for years. They wandered next door to one of Grant’s favorite spots, Devitt’s Pub, and shared their first kiss at the table after their friends had left. Despite multiple month-long trips apart, and a determination to not let this turn into something serious, they kept finding themselves wanting to see and be with each other. In early 2024, after months of trying not to fall too hard, they finally gave in and decided to really give this thing a shot. By June, they were living together in Dublin, building a life that felt right from the very start. There were countless walks, late-night talks, and plans for the future — even when that future wasn’t entirely clear. Each and every day, they have chosen to love and support each other through life's triumphs and trials, and most importantly, make sure the other is fed. By the end of November, Grant had found his chance to meet Talia's family with a trip to South Carolina for a Thanksgiving feast (courtesy of Sydney). Then in December, Talia had the opportunity to visit South Africa. Grant took her on a grand tour of the Karoo, Cape Town, and St. Francis— something he had been planning in the Notes app on his phone since the day after they first met. Talia met the rest of Grant's family, and every one of his best friends and future groomsmen. Following this trip, Grant knew, he was going to marry Talia. The proposal came a few months later in May, during Talia’s graduation trip to Portugal. This was the only time they would be able to have their families from two different sides of the world together in one place. So it was in Cascais, Portugal, with the sparkling ocean behind them, that Grant got down on one knee. Over the cheering of their families and a few strangers, Talia said, YES!! Grant and Talia have cherished each and every moment of their many adventures together, and they're so excited to celebrate the next chapter of their story with all of you in Toledo, Spain, at El Cigarral de las Mercedes!

Our Story

Talia Booher

Grant Rautenbach

Vicki, Vickers, Mamacita — she goes by many names, but Mom has always been the one that mattered most. Always putting her children before everything else, she’s instilled her values, work ethic, and humor into raising and nurturing Talia and Sydney — and they couldn’t be more grateful.

Vicki Booher

Dale, a loving mother of four, got lucky when she kept on gambling until she got her favourite child—Grant. The one and only son amongst this household of daughters.

Dale Rautenbach

Mike/Ted Lasso will give Rich a run for his money when it comes to dad jokes and pranks— he's had a few more years of practice, after all, And keep your eyes peeled! When the moment’s right, you might just catch his notorious “Peanuts” dance in action.

Mike Booher

George, a man of few words, but a giant in more ways than one. He's been a stronghold for the family, and we wouldn't be where we are without him.

George Rautenbach

Sydney, Talia’s younger sister (aka the Maid of Horror), has been a pain in Talia’s behind since 1998. Just kidding — Talia wouldn’t be whole without her. Sydney loves deeply and protects her family fiercely. The bond between these two can’t be shaken by politics or petty insults — they’ve already been through it all. They’ll always cherish their childhood memories, inside jokes, and the comfort of knowing that no matter what, the other will always pick up the phone. But...some things will never change—you won't catch Syd in Talia's room anytime soon.

Sydney Booher

Taryn will be stepping into the role of Best Man — an unconventional choice, but anyone who knows her knows she’s extraordinary. As the leader of the Rautenbach crew and our Chief Entertainment Officer, there’s no one better for the job.

Taryn Rautenbach

Callie is Talia’s cousin, but more like a sister. Full of spunk and personality, she’ll infiltrate your group and slip into your conversation with ease and leave you wondering, “Wait… what just happened?”

Callie Sphatt

Dunc the Funk Jackson! Born to be rivals, a Grey boy (Dunc) and a Snoozle (Grant) were forced to be roommates in Wilgenhof. But a friendship formed quickly — Oos Kaap roots, ETDs, and Pokémon cards set the foundation — and Funk has remained one of Grant’s best friends since 2013.

Duncan Jackson

Loren is a force of nature! Sister to Grant and co-MC to Mitch she's guaranteed to keep things upbeat, lively, and running like a well-oiled machine! She’s organized, observant, and always ready with a bit of witty banter. If anyone can make sure everything stays on track and keep the crowd laughing, it’s Loren.

Loren Rautenbach

Mitchell/"Amber" rang the doorbell shortly after the Rautenbach's moved to St. Francis Bay in 2000. Grant’s oldest friend and more like a brother than anything else, Mitch has been a constant presence and pivotal player in his life ever since. From countless nights out in St. Francis and Cape Town to Grant’s first act of rebellion — a sneaky trip to Plett — the two have shared it all. Mitch has grown up alongside Grant and will always have a place in the Rautenbach family.

Mitchell Koch

Kelly is Grant’s older sister, wife to Rich, and mom to Jones — our very own ring bearer. Kelly, whose nickname at school was Smeagol, has passed those big eyes onto little Jonesie. Together with Rich, she's the nurturing force that keeps their little fellowship running strong.

Kelly Russell

Kayser — a friend in varying degrees since our early Saints days in 2003, and later a shared dorm mate at St. Andrews — has been a close friend and confidant for years. There are too many stories to count, with many more still to come.

Mark Kayser

Zarah and Talia first met during a global health elective in Uganda and later became roommates in Madison, Wisconsin. A fellow travel enthusiast and creator of Body by Matoke, Zarah is on a mission to visit 30 countries before turning 30! Over the years, they’ve shared endless laughs, adventures across continents, and the joy of celebrating each other’s weddings.

Zarah Halde

Marty Milkshakes! Watch out for him at the end of the night — the dance floor knows that when it comes to Marty, clothing is optional. A friend of Grant’s since his first few weeks at St. Andrew’s, the two began a long-standing tradition of being roommates on every water polo tour throughout their five years at school. Marty has remained a close friend ever since, and their bond has only grown stronger in Europe over the past year. We’re thrilled (and mildly terrified) to have him running our ceremony — at our own risk.

Marty Chandler

Erin is the life of the party, but watch out — she’ll put you in your place on the dance floor. You’ll stop what you’re doing to tune in for her wild Cotton Eye Joe Irish jig. Also, hide your bread — she might take it. Beyond her legendary moves, Erin is probably the most well-traveled person in the room — and she does it all with just a backpack. She’s smart, thoughtful, and a passionate advocate for those in need, bringing heart and humor wherever she goes.

Erin Henrichs

Marcy— a true gent, a shared fight fanatic, Bok fan, Pub Master, and whisky connoisseur. Grant was honored to be a groomsman to Marc at his and Gabi's wedding in May 2025. Grant and Marc became Harambaebies in their fourth year of studying together back in 2016, and Marc has continued to be a valued friend and someone Grant has always been able to rely on. Although he has been missed since his debut ETD nearly 10 years ago.

Marc Williams

Ayla and Talia first met in Uganda in 2017 and quickly bonded over their shared love of the outdoors, hiking, and travel. Back in Madison, Wisconsin, they spent countless evenings sharing dinners, laughter, and study sessions. Since then, they’ve visited each other across continents, celebrated each other’s weddings (just ask her about Telluride), and continued collecting stories along the way.

Ayla Esser

Rich — father of Jones, husband of Kelly, and undisputed King of Dad Jokes. For our sins, Rich married Kelly in 2022, when Grant was honored to stand beside him and some of his closest friends on their big day. From their first meeting in St. Francis — where Rich famously demolished an entire lasagna after a night out — to raising Jones with Kelly in Vancouver, Rich has shared a memorable journey with Grant and the Rautenbach family. We’re lucky to have him as part of the celebration.

Richard Russell

Last, but not least— Jonesie!  This little hobbit is our official ringbearer. He's a little dude with huge personality, and we are so blessed by the joy he brings to our lives. We've given him a big job, but nobody else can carry the rings but him.

Jones Russell

Wedding Party

Day 1 - Tuesday, 28th April:4:00 PM: Check-In6:00 PM: Welcome Garden Party Begins10:00 PM: Welcome Party Ends Day 2 - Wednesday, 29th April:8:00-10:00 AM Breakfast (provided by hotel)*Free time to explore Toledo or relax on site*4:30 PM: Pre-Ceremony Refreshments at La Mirador5:00 PM: Ceremony at La Mirador6:00 PM: Reception6:05 PM: Cava Toast7:30 PM: Take seats for Dinner9:30 PM: Open Bar Begins, Dance Floor Opens in La Casona10:00 PM: First Dance12:30 AM: Evening food01:30 AM: Bar Close Day 3 - Thursday, 30th April:9:00-11:00 AM: Breakfast*Free time to explore Toledo or relax on site*3:00 PM: South African Braai Begins7:00 PM: Braai Ends*Free time in the evening* Day 4 - Friday, 1st May:8:00-10:00 AM: Breakfast12:00 PM: Check out &amp; Farewell Thank you all for celebrating with us! UPDATES: Click here to join our <a href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/G6Eq9a457QP8IBi9kysObC?mode=gi_t" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">WhatsApp Community</a> for updates and announcements!

Schedule

5th of January: Start Applying for Visas 1st of Feb: Please ensure that you have answered all RSVP follow-up questions (i.e. dietary restrictions, length of stay, etc.) 1st of March: Accommodation Payments Due 28th of April: Let's Celebrate!!

Deadlines

Hotel Details

To accommodate everyone on site, we have carefully assigned rooms. The type of room you'll be staying in is detailed in a private message within your official invitation. Please let us know if you need any adjustments to these arrangements. Cigarral de las Mercedes Boutique HotelCtra. Piedrabuena, 72, 45004 Toledo, Spain<a href="https://cigarraldelasmercedes.com/hotel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://cigarraldelasmercedes.com/hotel/</a> If you would like a shuttle to pick you up and drop you off at the airport, please contact the hotel to arrange this: <a href="mailto:hotel@cigarraldelasmercedes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hotel@cigarraldelasmercedes.com</a>

Payment Details

Guests residing in the US may pay in equivalent USD. Please make payments to: Capital One Savings (Talia Booher)Account number: 36390035010Routing number: 031176110Address: 5108 Park Creek AveNorth Charleston, 29418 OR Apple Pay to +19208585482Please let Talia know before you do this so we can make sure her American number is turned on. She will be in the US from 17-27th of January. Guests residing in Europe/UK/South Africa may make payments in Euros to: If You Have Revolut, This Payment Link: https://revolut.me/grantraut Or these Details Below for Bank Transfers: Beneficiary: Grant RautenbachIBAN: IE02REVO99036001784530BIC/SWIFT: REVOIE23Bank Name &amp; Address: Revolut Bank UAB, 2 Dublin Landings, North Dock, Dublin 1, D01 V4A3, IrelandCorrespondent BIC: CHASDEFX Or in Rand equivalent: Account Name: Grant RMB Cheque AccountAccount Number: 62067426596Bank: FNB/RMBBranch: 250655

Rooms

<a href="https://cigarraldelasmercedes.com/hotel/habitacion-classic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Classic Room</a>

<a href="https://cigarraldelasmercedes.com/hotel/habitacion-garden/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Garden Room</a>

<a href="https://cigarraldelasmercedes.com/hotel/habitacion-deluxe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Deluxe Room</a>

<a href="https://cigarraldelasmercedes.com/hotel/villas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Villa</a>

Hotel & Accommodation

Getting to Toledo

Fly into Madrid at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas international airport (MAD). If you are coming from far, we recommend either coming a few days before the wedding or staying a few days after to really make the most of trip to Spain. Madrid to Toledo Option 1: ShuttleA shuttle can be provided by the hotel to transport you directly from the airport to the venue. Each party should contact the hotel at <a href="mailto:hotel@cigarraldelasmercedes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hotel@cigarraldelasmercedes.com</a> to arrange this. Option 2: Train1) Take the Airport Express (bus route 203) from Terminal 1 to the Atocha train station. Buses run on average 15 times per day and take about 30 minutes to reach the train station. Tickets start at €5 if you book in advance. Link to bus: <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/airport-express-shuttle" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> 2) Take the high-speed train from Pta. Atocha - Almudena Grandes to Toledo railway station (35 minutes; tickets are around €32). Link to train: <a href="https://www.renfe.com/es/en/inspirate/rutas/madrid-toledo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> 3) Toledo railway station is 10 min taxi to the venue. Please note there is no Uber in Toledo, but there are taxis run by Taxi Toledo Capital or Taxi de Toledo (english citycenter). We recommend Google searching these names and calling the number, as many don't have websites. You can also book a taxi by contacting the hotel at <a href="mailto:hotel@cigarraldelasmercedes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hotel@cigarraldelasmercedes.com</a> Option 3: Car rental (recommended if you want to tour the area)1) Rent a car at Madrid airport and drive to the venue, driving past Toledo Old Town (~1 hr drive). 2) There is parking on site right as you enter the gate of the estate 3) Parking in Old Town can be tricky (narrow roads), but there are a few garages/car parks in town if you want to park and walk around (Aparcamiento Santo Tomé S.L). Old Town is very walkable *CAR RENTAL GROUP CHAT: If you are renting a car and looking to fill seats to save on costs, we've made a WhatsApp group for discussing logistics. <a href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/IpjBkVUbd33DjsuRz7rcyH?mode=gi_t" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click here to join!</a> Hotel address: Ctra. Piedrabuena, 72, 45004 Toledo, Spain

Travel Details

Toledo

Perched above the Tagus River, Toledo is a breathtaking hilltop city and UNESCO World Heritage Site just an hour south of Madrid. Known as the “City of Three Cultures” for its blend of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage, Toledo’s cobblestone streets, ancient bridges, and golden sunsets make it one of Spain’s most enchanting destinations. Guests can explore the magnificent Toledo Cathedral, the Alcázar fortress, and the atmospheric Jewish Quarter, or take in the sweeping views from Mirador del Valle. The city is filled with artisan shops, Spanish cuisine, and a timeless charm that feels straight out of a storybook. Just beyond Toledo lies La Mancha, the region made famous by Spain’s most beloved literary hero, Don Quixote. Written by Miguel de Cervantes in the early 1600s, Don Quixote de la Mancha is often called the world’s first modern novel. It tells the story of a dreamer who sets out to revive chivalry, mistaking windmills for giants and inns for castles — a tale that’s both humorous and deeply human. Toledo and its surrounding countryside inspired much of Cervantes’ setting: vast golden plains, medieval villages, and the iconic windmills that still stand today in towns like Consuegra and Campo de Criptana. For visitors, a short drive from Toledo offers the chance to step into this legendary landscape and see the famous “giants” for yourself — a perfect glimpse into the heart and imagination of old Spain.

Toledo Cathedral (Catedral Primada de Santa María) – One of Spain’s most stunning Gothic cathedrals, filled with intricate art and architecture.Alcázar of Toledo – A majestic fortress overlooking the city, now home to the Army Museum and incredible panoramic views.Jewish Quarter (La Judería) – Wander through historic streets lined with artisan shops, visit El Tránsito Synagogue and Santa María la Blanca.Puente de San Martín &amp; Puente de Alcántara – Two medieval bridges offering postcard-perfect views over the Tagus River.Mirador del Valle – The city’s most famous viewpoint — especially magical at sunset.El Greco Museum – Dedicated to the artist who spent much of his life in Toledo, showcasing his works and the home where he lived.Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes – A beautiful example of Gothic and Mudéjar design built by the Catholic Monarchs.Museo Sefardí (Sephardic Museum) – A fascinating glimpse into the history of Jewish culture in Spain.Local Artisan Shops – Toledo is famous for its traditional Damascene metalwork, swords, and handmade ceramics.Food &amp; Wine – Enjoy local specialties like marzipan, Manchego cheese, and Castilian wine at charming restaurants and tapas bars.Stroll the Old Town – Simply wandering Toledo’s narrow medieval lanes, courtyards, and hidden plazas is an experience in itself.

Madrid

Just a short drive or train ride away, Madrid offers the perfect mix of art, food, and energy. Wander through the elegant Retiro Park, explore world-class museums like the Prado, and visit the grand Royal Palace or lively Plaza Mayor. Whether you spend a few days soaking in the history of Toledo or enjoy the vibrant buzz of Madrid before or after the wedding, both cities offer the best of Spain — culture, romance, and unforgettable beauty.

Things to Do in Toledo

What should I wear to the welcome garden party?

Cocktail attire in floral and pastel colours. *Please do not wear all white or cream* Men: Please wear collared shirts with floral patterns or pastel colours and long pants/chinos. Ladies: Please wear summer or cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, or trousers with floral patterns or pastels

What should I wear for the wedding day?

Semi-formal/formal attire. *Please avoid wearing white dresses and navy suits.* Men: Please wear a blazer and collared top. Ties are optional. Ladies: Please wear semi-formal/formal dresses/ outfits. Dresses do not need to be full-length gowns. *We advise against wearing stiletto heels, as they may be ruined by the gravel. We recommend block, wedge, or platform heels or flats.

What Food Will Be Served?

Welcome Dinner/Garden Party: Spanish Tapas ExperienceTomato and Iberian Ham on Toasted BreadFreshly Made Spanish OmeletIberian Ham CroquettesBoletus Mushroom CroquettesPatatas BravasPadrón PeppersPaella station:King Prawn PaellaCoquelet Chicken PaellaSeasonal Vegetable PaellaAssortment of mini dessertsJamon cutter Beverages: Beer, wine, sangria and soft drinks Wedding Dinner:Starter: Thai cream with cucumber, yogurt and tiger prawn Salad: Warm prawn salad in tempura with mushrooms and Thai sauce Main Course: Slow-cooked beef cheek accompanied by smoked Terra da Lugo cheese waffle topped with a Port sauce Dessert: Marzipan delight with cream ice cream, walnuts and caramel White Wine (paired with starter and salad): Jose Pariente Sauvignon Blanc (D.O. Rueda) Red Wine (paired with main): Marqués de Riscal Reserva (D.O.C.a Rioja) Dessert Wine: Juve &amp; Camps Reserva de la Familia (D.O. Cava) Open Bar to start at 21:30. Late Night Snacks During the Party: There will be a selection of late night snacks throughout the evening. At 12:30 there will be a Spanish Classic— Tortilla de Patatas/ Spanish Omelette Braai:Chef’s selection of fresh salads Grill Selection:Argentinian LoinIberian Pork “Presa”Graus SausageGrilled Chicken Sides:Baby PotatoesSautéed Seasonal VegetablesAssortment of Mini-Desserts Beverages: Beer, wine, sangria and soft drinks