FASHION, good food and networking were the order of the day at the wedding of Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini's daughter at the weekend.

Princess Bukhosibemvelo Zibuyile Zulu tied the knot with businessman Sipho Nyawo at the Botanic Gardens in Durban on Saturday.

The venue was splendidly decorated and, what with the perfect sunny weather, alluring flowers and beautiful chirps from birdsprovided a perfect moment for the who's who in politics and business in the country?

The bride was gorgeous in her dress, and the groom looked very relaxed as he read out his vows bravely and passionately.

He surprised the guests who had been waiting anxiously for the "you may kiss the bride" moment when he simply leaned over and kissed his beautiful wife on both cheeks and forehead.

Dignitaries who attended the wedding included the country's first ladies - MaNtuli, Madiba and MaKhumalo.

The threesome were dressed to kill, and seated next to them was Inkatha Freedom Party leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi and his daughter Phumzile.

eThekwini mayor Obed Mlaba also attended, while the majority of people included politicians, business people and members of the Swazi royal house.

Most women were dressed elegantly, spotting expensive jewellery and floral hats. The men, on the other hand, were mostly in designer suites.

The wedding began at the Full Gospel Church in Ntuzuma, where pastors from the groom's church met the bride and gave her their blessings before heading to the Botanic Gardens.

Nyawo is a former Transnet executive and co-founder and director of the Amathonga Institute, which gives advice to emerging entrepreneurs.