Tumi Morake’s fantasy versus reality

While waiting for the day when a prince in shining armour will ride into their life and sweep them off their feet, the majority of women already had an idea of what they wanted their wedding day to be like by the time they reached adolescence, down to the last detail.

But one person’s idea of a perfect wedding is another’s nightmare. Each new bride (and sometimes the groom too) has their own unique idea for the big day, and rolling out these plans often becomes one of the most stressful times in a person’s life.

Mzansi Magic’s Our Perfect Wedding gets up close and personal with soon-to-wed couples as they turn fantasy into reality. The South African show, which returns to television screens for its fourth season in January 2015, promises not to hold back the drama, tears, kisses and heartfelt moments.

PRESENTER. Comic Tumi Morake has been announced as the new host for Mzansi Magic’s Our Perfect Wedding. Pictures: Whacked Comedy

With former presenter Phumeza’s resignation – the show’s demands took a toll on her own family life – producers introduced comedienne Tumi Morake as the new host.

Morake has been married to her actor and screenwriter husband Mpho Osei-Tutu for close to five years now and has had two of her own weddings – a white wedding and a traditional one.

She says: “Our wedding was not perfect but that makes me treasure it even more. It had its hiccups and drama, joy and elation. More importantly I had all my favourite people there, which meant the world to me.”

When asked what she likes most about the show, Morake says: “I love seeing the journey from concept to realisation of people’s dream weddings.”

Though she only started watching the show in its second season, Morake has been a die-hard fan ever since. She confirms nothing in the show is staged.

Sniggering she adds: “These are random people from random places; I can’t imagine trying to get them to act.”

REALITY TELEVISION. Tumi Morake steps into a new role, bringing her bubbly personality to our television screens.

Viewers will have a chance to see a different side to Morake’s character as she steps into this new role, showing her more serious side.

With so much emphasis being placed on weddings these days, she says: “Weddings are a major rite of passage, and they overshadow marriages sometimes. I think people forget that it is the beginning of a journey. We want ‘prescribed’ perfection but you need to make it perfect for you.”

Advising future couples, she says: “Do not accrue debt. If you plan to be married someday, start saving for it now. And include your family. It isn’t just about you.”