From the moment they met as university classmates in Surabaya, Hardian and Vera’s connection was quiet but sure. Their first conversation began over a class project at Petra Christian University — just one of those ordinary moments that would later feel anything but.
After years together, much of it spent navigating the challenges of long distance between Denpasar and Surabaya, the couple decided it was time. “There was nothing particularly special about our engagement,” Hardian reflects simply. “We had been dating for quite a while and felt that maybe it was time for us to get married.”
While the engagement itself may have been understated, their wedding was anything but. Bringing together 300 loved ones at the InterContinental Bali Resort in Jimbaran, the couple hosted a grand destination celebration that honoured both their heritage and the beauty of Bali.
“We wanted to hold the event in a special place, somewhere our guests could receive the best service and enjoy a beautiful experience,” say Hardian and Vera. The InterContinental Bali Resort offered all that and more — from its tropical gardens and ocean views to the unmistakable sense of place that comes with Balinese design and hospitality.
The couple styled their celebration with a refined mix of Chinese and Japanese elements and included a traditional tea pai ceremony with their extended families — a nod to their shared heritage and the importance of family throughout the day.
Planning a destination wedding always comes with logistics, and for Hardian and Vera, the biggest challenge was organising travel and accommodation for Vera’s family and relatives, many of whom were coming from outside Bali. “We had to be extra careful in preparing the hotel and transportation for them,” they explain — but with careful planning and the help of The Story Event Organizer, everything came together seamlessly.
Vera looked stunning in a gown by Tiffany Meymorisa, with hair and makeup by La Bertha, while Hardian wore a classic suit by Wong Hang. Their elegant style perfectly matched the timeless feel of the day, captured beautifully by the team at Bare Odds.
When asked what advice they’d give to other couples planning a destination wedding, Hardian and Vera are clear: “Preparation is everything. Since destination weddings are often held far from where we usually live, we need to plan everything well in advance to avoid any issues as the big day approaches.”
Surrounded by tropical gardens and Balinese architectural charm, Hardian and Vera’s day unfolded with a meaningful blend of personal heritage and local tradition — from the tea pai ceremony to the refined Chinese-Japanese aesthetic, all set against the backdrop of one of Bali’s most iconic five-star resorts. Their destination wedding was, just as they’d hoped, a once-in-a-lifetime celebration in a truly special place, shared with those they love.
Dream Team
Photography & Videography: @bare.odds // Venue: InterContinental Bali Resort – Alun-Alun Garden (ceremony), Imperial Ballroom (reception) // Wedding Planner: @thestory_eventorganizer // Bride’s Dress: @tiffanymeymorisa // Groom’s Suit: @wonghangtailor // Hair & Makeup: @labertha_project // Flowers: @agamdecor // Cake: @leviels.id // Catering: InterContinental Resort Bali & @babigulingpandeegi // Music/Band: @thebeney // Rings: @theprince_id