Photography: Timeless Images by Vanessa // Location: InterContinental Hayman Island Resort // Guests: 20
A private island as your wedding backdrop? Just say: YES!
Gabriela (Gabby) and Arthur chose Australia’s InterContinental Hayman Island Resort as the picture-perfect setting for their micro wedding in The Whitsundays. The destination felt meant to be for the Sydney-based sweethearts, who enjoyed their first holiday as a ‘couple’ around these fabled waters.
“We returned every couple of years for the duration of our relationship, and more recently (prior to our engagement) we spoke about getting married on one of the beautiful islands,” says Gabby. “Fast forward to 2023 and our dream wedding came true with our nearest and dearest by our side on Hayman Island. We loved the luxurious feel of the island resort and the stunning location.”
On a day blessed by sunshine, blue skies, and lots of love from 20 special guests, the couple enlisted Queensland-based photographer Timeless Images by Vanessa to capture the magical mood. Their wedding album speaks volumes, with joy shining through each frame and take-me-back vistas evoking memories of a relaxed, romantic tropical celebration.
For Gabby, the ceremony holds a special place in her heart. “Sharing our first kiss and walking back down the aisle for the first time as husband and wife is my most precious memory,” she says. The reception was also a highlight, hosted at the resort’s Rainforest Grove. “The location was perfect for a warm, starry night. Beautiful lighting and the perfect spot for an intimate setting of 22 people,” says Gabby. “The funniest moment was definitely the trip down memory lane when our bridal party presented their speeches!”
When designing their effortlessly luxe event, Gabby and Arthur took their wedding planner’s advice on board. “They told us to relax and enjoy the process,” says Gabby. “Also, break tasks into manageable sections and have a schedule to gradually build up to the main event.” Having an expert team in their corner also helped erase any worries about the finer details of the day. “The Hayman team made this a seamless process, and without them our day would not have been as magical as it was!”
And how did they honeymoon? “We stayed on Hayman for three nights after the wedding day. Wishing we stayed longer!” says Gabby. “But our honeymoon is planned for Europe this May/June 2024.”
Choosing to continue their Whitsunday wedding festivities is a decision the newlyweds cherish. “Our friends and family loved the relaxed, micro wedding atmosphere and we loved having an extended wedding celebration with them,” says Gabby. “If your budget allows, we highly recommend extending your trip with your guests to enjoy those first special moments together.”
DREAM TEAM
Wedding date: 12 October 2023 // Photography: Timeless Images by Vanessa // Wedding venue & planner: InterContinental Hayman Island Resort // Florals: Sofi & Flora // Dress: Made with Love // Honeymoon: Europe
