Crystal clear water, white-sandy beaches AND relatively close to Australia, it’s no wonder that Fiji is one of the most popular tropical destination wedding locations. Bula Bride knows this all too well, and has created a one-stop-shop of inspiration, real weddings and advice for brides looking to plan their destination wedding in Fiji. We caught up with Leanne to learn more about the benefits of getting married in Fiji and how Bula Bride can help!
WHY FIJI? WHAT DOES IT OFFER FOR TROPICAL BRIDES?
The heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is an island nation blessed with 333 tropical islands that are home to happiness. Choice is plentiful with affordable accommodation all the way through to exclusive resorts and barefoot luxury to do as much or as little as you like. With white sand beaches, snorkeling and diving, a pristine natural environment and an abundance of culture to immerse yourself in, there’s something in Fiji for everyone. And Fiji is a short flight – which means no jetlag! Temperatures hover perpetually between 26C to 31C year round.
Fijians personify hospitality and just love a good wedding. Traditional Fijian style, an elopement on the beach or a large gathering of family and friends, each are handled with efficiency, smiles and a big BULA! Marriage licenses are easily obtained and your marriage is legal and recognised worldwide. If you have children in your party and need family friendly facilities, the Fijians’ love of kids is legendary and most of the resorts have excellent Kids Clubs.
WHERE ARE THE BEST SPOTS FOR POST-WEDDING PHOTOS TO WOW FRIENDS AND FAMILY BACK HOME?
Every location is stunning, from locations right on the beach to the mountains and highlands, or tropical gardens. It’s hard to find anywhere that isn’t beautiful, so we recommend choosing a great photographer who will provide you with wedding photos to incorporate stunning imagery of Fiji’s amazing scenery. Fiji sunsets in particular have a real WOW factor.
TOP CEREMONY AND RECEPTION LOCATIONS?
This is incredibly hard to choose because of the immense selection of amazing spots. We recommend putting some thought into what suits your personal requirements and also seeking the assistance of a specialist Fiji travel agent or planner to help pick the right spot. From the larger resorts on Denarau and the Coral Coast, to the idyllic islands where you will find the true Fiji experience, there is something there for everyone.
FAVOURITE FASHION AND MAKEUP LOOK FOR A FIJI BRIDE?
We find most brides stay true to their personal preferences and just modify or adapt slightly to the Fiji climate. We see everything from very relaxed slip dresses, bare feet and minimalist hair and make up through to gorgeous gowns fit for a princess.
As there are chapels and ballroom options as well as beach weddings, your style of dress is not limited and we love seeing the wide variety of fashion and hair and make up options chosen by brides.
Pictured above: Monique’s gorgeous gown from Monique and Karel’s Real Wedding. Photo by Lia & Stu Photography.
HOW EXPENSIVE IS A DESTINATION WEDDING IN FIJI? IS IT POSSIBLE TO HAVE A BUDGET TROPICAL WEDDING THERE?
Regardless of whether your budget is small or large, weddings in Fiji can be arranged that are budget friendly, ensuring a stress free special day that looks just like the one in your imagination! From major international resorts along the Coral Coast, to the islands which are quintessentially Fiji with white, sandy beaches and swaying coconut palms, to exclusive 5 star retreats – there will be a venue that suits your budget requirements.
Some resorts offer packages that are much cheaper than weddings in Australia; others are amazing retreats that offer unequalled luxury, romance & privacy and particularly suitable for smaller weddings or elopements.
There are so many great places, for large groups needing family friendly, we love Sofitel on Denarau Island, our mid-range for that island feel with style, Musket Cove Resort on Malolo Lailai and for luxury and personal attention Nanuku is stunning.
TOP PIECE OF ADVICE FOR BRIDES IN FIJI BEFORE THEIR BIG DAY?
Plan, plan, plan! Organising a Fiji Destination Wedding can be trying at times. The majority of it is done online – from the initial research, to finding inspiration and contacting suppliers, vendors and resorts. Unless you do a trip over there to see the venues and speak one on one with the suppliers & vendors then it can be a little stressful getting the correct information about what you are after; with the hopes that it all magically comes together on the day. Most of the time it does, but some good advance planning and clear communication will help you get on that flight before your wedding day feeling at ease and that it is under control.
If you are finding it difficult or stressful to plan your wedding one on one with the resort – find a planner, specialist or agent that can help! Some have a fee and others don’t. They can pickup from where you have started or help you from the very beginning. Many people retrospectively wish they had gone with this option, it means less time on the emails and phone calls for you and less stress!
ANY SPECIAL RECOMMENDATIONS OR MUST-SEE SIGHTS OR EXPERIENCES WHILE IN FIJI?
You absolutely must get out on the water in Fiji, the ocean is amazing and swimming and snorkelling are not to be missed. Organise a private or group charter, or head to one of Fiji’s famous spots like the Malamala Beach Club, where you can have that real island experience for the day. For the more adventurous there are tons of other activities, like swimming with sharks, highland treks, ziplining, but you can’t beat a good day out on the water in our experience!
Malamala Beach Club
HOW WILL BULA BRIDE HELP BRIDES LOOKING TO HAVE THEIR OWN DESTINATION WEDDING IN FIJI?
Bula Bride is a Fiji Destination Wedding Blog, to help inform and inspire brides and grooms in their planning – beyond the package. BulaBride regularly showcases real Fiji weddings, ideas and inspiration, planning tips and resources, exclusive news and specials, sharing of personal experiences from brides and grooms and personal loves.Bula Bride’s Directory helps you find and connect with talented vendors & suppliers within the destination wedding industry, both in Fiji as well as Australia and New Zealand.
We are the first wedding blog specifically dedicated to Fiji weddings and the Fiji destination wedding industry. Within it’s first year BulaBride has seen a rapid growth of readers from all corners of the globe (from bride-to-bes, past bride and grooms, bridesmaids and industry vendors), establishing Bula Bride as a valuable resource in planning a Fiji destination wedding.
Related Articles:
Splotlight on Wedding Planners
10 Beautiful Chapels by the Beach or Water