With a shared love of travel and the ocean, Sheila and Eugene knew they wanted their wedding to feel personal, relaxed and unforgettable. Originally from Ireland but now living in Perth, the couple set their sights on Bali — a destination they’d fallen for years earlier while attending a friend’s wedding.
Their venue of choice? The Samaya Seminyak Bali — a beachfront resort known for its sweeping ocean views, tranquil gardens and glowing fairy lights at dusk. “We searched venues between Nusa Dua and Seminyak,” says Sheila. “The Samaya really stood out with its peaceful atmosphere and incredible sunset views. Plus, the wedding suite is right beside the ceremony space, which made everything easy.”
With 40 guests travelling from Australia and Ireland, Sheila and Eugene kept the celebration intimate and relaxed. There was no bridal party or groomsmen — just their closest people dressed in casual-formal style, gathered for a ceremony by the sea surrounded by white and green florals. “For most of our guests, it was their first destination wedding,” Sheila shares. “We really wanted to create a chilled-out vibe.”
Some favourite personal touches included table numbers featuring their dog Eireann and a horseshoe charm from Sheila’s mum, tied to her bouquet. The bride’s morning was spent at the villa with her sisters and cousin, getting ready in a calm, joy-filled atmosphere. But it was walking down the aisle that truly moved her. “It was emotional looking out at our friends and family who came all the way from Ireland and Australia. I felt so grateful.”
Guests were treated to cocktails, great food, and live music from the Bali Full Moon Band, before fire dancers and fireworks lit up the night. Their first dance to Greatest Day by Take That kicked off a high-energy reception under the stars.
While a volcanic eruption caused some travel delays, the couple had built in extra time and kept their cool. “We booked during the dry season and sent out save-the-dates 12 months in advance,” Sheila says. “That really helped. Also, our wedding planner and The Samaya’s team were so patient and helpful — they made everything feel seamless.”
After the big day, Sheila and Eugene spent a few more days in Bali with their families, with plans for another island escape later this year. “Maybe Vietnam or the Philippines — we’re still deciding.”
Her advice for other couples? “Book flexi airfares, plan for the weather, and don’t stress over small hiccups — they’re the things you forget. And practise your first dance!”
DREAM TEAM
Guests: 40 // Venue, Catering & Coordination: The Samaya Seminyak Bali | @thesamayaseminyak // Photography: Portraits by Filomena | @filomenastory // Hair: Tini Hair Stylist | @tinihair // Makeup: @reneepettitmakeup // Florals: I_am baliflorist | @i_ambaliflorist // Entertainment: Bali Full Moon Band | @balifullmoonband, fire dancers & pyrotechnics by The Samaya // Dress: White One, from Oxford Bridal Perth | @oxfordbridalperth // Shoes: Harlo Australia, from Georgie’s Bridal Shoes // Earrings: Calilo Australia // Rings: Michael Hill Jewellers // Pre-wedding Grazing: Island Graze | @islandgraze