Neon, Nostalgia & 80’s Anthems – Marcel Kapp’s 40th at De Vines, Paarl

On 20 June 2025, I had the privilege of photographing and filming Marcel Kapp’s 80’s-themed 40th birthday bash at De Vines Pub & Restaurant in Paarl — and let me tell you, this one hit all the right notes (and synth chords).

Now, being from the Northern Suburbs, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this venue. Finding it felt like discovering a secret gem. De Vines turned out to be the perfect size for a celebration like this — big enough to feel alive, yet intimate enough that you didn’t lose your friends in a sea of strangers. Plus, the bar stretches as long as the venue is wide, which is basically the holy grail of party logistics.

The night started slow, as these things do. Guests trickled in one by one, decked out in their best 80’s gear — neon tights, oversized blazers, big hair, you name it. Every arrival was a little reunion, a burst of laughter, a hug, and me trying not to grin behind the camera while capturing those first greetings.

I had the awesome Chris Joubert (from Studio Rainn https://www.studiorainn.com) alongside me, helping with the photography and videography. Chris handled most of the stills, delivering those forever photos, while I focused on video and the moments in motion. Working alongside someone who just gets it always makes the job feel less like work and more like being part of the celebration.

Highlights of the night? Plenty.

A local talent, Rebel Bunny, opened the evening with live music — just her, her guitar, and that kind of soulful voice that slows the room down and sets the vibe perfectly. Each table had paper laid out for guests to write Marcel personal birthday messages, some heartfelt, others… let’s call them “creative” (you could spot the tequila handwriting from a mile away).

As the night warmed up, the DJ took over, cranking out 80’s hits that got everyone on their feet. Marcel’s best friend and father gave heartfelt speeches — the kind that make you laugh and tear up all in one breath. The energy on that dancefloor? Electric.

Marcel’s wife and her friends turned it into a full-on 80’s music video, and to everyone’s surprise (and joy), many of Marcel’s father’s friends showed up the younger crowd with their dance moves. Watching those generational dance battles unfold was comedy and camaraderie in one frame.

One special touch? Marcel’s dad asked me to film secret video messages from guests throughout the night — little tributes and jokes that Marcel wouldn’t see until I delivered the final edited video. The look on his face when he watched it later? Worth every minute behind the camera.

Nights like these remind me why I love doing what I do. It’s not just photos and videos — it’s about catching the life in between the music and the speeches. The laughter, the dancing, the way friendships and family bonds light up a room.

 To Marcel and his family — thank you for trusting me to capture your night. And a big shoutout to Chris Joubert (Studio Rainn) for bringing his lens magic to the party.

If you’re planning an event — from birthdays to weddings to wild themed parties — let’s make sure those memories don’t just fade into the next morning’s hangover.

📸 Photography & Videography by Leon van Eeden (with Studio Rainn)

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