A love of travel inspired this relaxed Fiji wedding at a resort whose name means love.
For a couple who loves to celebrate overseas, a destination wedding made perfect sense for Katie and Tom. “We have had all our big occasions abroad,” explains Katie. “We met in Borneo, started dating in Latvia and got engaged in Slovenia … we also wanted a relaxed wedding which felt almost more like a holiday.” 
A Fijian island paradise with a fun, grown-up energy seduced the Sydney-based pair. “When we visited Lomani Island Resort, we knew it ticked all the right boxes,” says Katie. “Lomani has this beautiful lawn overlooking the sea which gave us the perfect, tropical-style wedding we always wanted. Plus, with it being adults-only, it really fit into our wedding vibe.” Not to mention the fact that Lomani means ‘love’ in Fijian!
Though planning remotely, the couple managed to convey their style vision via photos. “It turned out looking even better than we had expected!” says Katie. They also heeded some valuable advice from their wedding planner. “They told us: No need to stress, most of the sorting happens in the last few weeks/months. So, sorting out all the tasks which can be done off-island (like rings, suits, dress etc) before then will save you time in the long run.”
As promised, the wedding day came together with joy, ease and tropical flair, anchored by a beautiful beach ceremony. Emotions spilled over as Tom caught a first look at his future bride, setting the scene for the couple’s heartfelt vows. Happy tears were shed, petals were showered, and fresh coconuts were shared before golden hour beckoned the newlyweds to a glorious photo session.
Then, the grand finale — a magical open-air reception, dining on the main lawn overlooking the ocean and dancing beneath starry skies, with the day’s love and laughter only amplified after dark. Among the highlights? Delicious food (the Bombe Alaska dessert received special mention), a surprise fire dance performance (a guest favourite) and memorable speeches. “I particularly enjoyed the best man’s speech, especially as I had given the best man’s speech at his wedding a month earlier,” notes Tom.
Naturally, these seasoned travellers had an extra-special honeymoon planned. They enjoyed two extra days at the resort before jetting off to swim with turtles and hike the Inca Trail in Peru and the Galapagos Islands. The perfect balance of tropical bliss and bucket-list adventure!
Back in Australia, Katie and Tom are quick to sing the praises of holiday weddings, especially to those feeling a little overwhelmed by ‘I do’. “Your wedding day will be amazing and slightly stressful wherever you are — so you might as well be on a beautiful island because that definitely helps keep you relaxed. We loved that we were at the resort with our families and friends for four days. It was as though we had a beautiful and fun holiday with a fantastic wedding in the middle.” What’s not to love!?
DREAM TEAM
Photography: Konnected Memories// Guests: 15 // Ceremony & reception: Lomani Island Resort // Wedding planner: Viva Destination Weddings // Dress: Luv Bridal // Groom’s attire: Suitsupply // Entertainment: DJ Will // Florist: Lomani Island Resort // Tables: Fiji Atelier // Honeymoon: Lomani Island Resort, Peru & Galapagos Islands (G Adventures)