When this couple first envisioned their dream wedding experience, it was Fiji in a nutshell.
“We wanted a relaxed, fun beach wedding surrounded by clear blue waters and white sand,” says Michelle. “Some of our friends and family had recently visited Fiji and spoke so highly of how amazing it was and how friendly the people were.”
The New Zealand-based couple was drawn to the screensaver scenery and holiday vibe of Plantation Island Resort — a beachfront escape off the west coast of mainland Fiji. The island resort ticked another important box for the pair. It was perfect for their guest list of 22, including their three-year-old daughter, with a choice of comfortable hotel and bure-style accommodation and family-friendly resort facilities.
“We loved letting go of tradition and being able to do it our own way,” says Michelle whose elegant bridal gown even provided a moment of levity. “The funniest moment of the day was when I got stuck trying to get up on the buggy in my wedding dress!” she says.
Apart from that minor ‘hitch’ the wedding was smooth sailing, including a joyful beach ceremony accented with pops of tropical colour against a beautiful ocean backdrop. The bride made her arrival down a sandy aisle, much to the delight of her groom and guests, and the newlyweds basked in a romantic west-coast sunset before festivities kicked off in the resort’s Welcome Bure.
“The bure was perfectly styled and beautiful,” says Michelle. “The food was all delicious but the kokoda (fresh fish marinated in lemon and lime juice with coconut) was a firm favourite.” It was the romantic, relaxed, and fun island celebration the couple had envisioned. And the reception served as a backdrop for another memorable moment — the first dance, with their beloved daughter in tow.
With holiday wedding memories still fresh in her mind, Michelle says her best advice to others planning from afar is to “trust the process” and the expertise of local vendors. “Don’t sweat the small stuff!” she says. “Some things may change (we were going to have a beach reception but changed to the beautiful Welcome Bure due to the weather), but your day will be absolutely perfect.”
And what was the feedback from friends and family? “That it was an amazing experience to be part of” says Michelle. “Guests felt the wedding was specific to my husband, daughter and I rather than a ‘cookie-cutter wedding. And, of course, getting to have a holiday all at the same time was a highlight!”
In lieu of a traditional honeymoon, the couple cherished the moment by spending a few extra days on the island and the mainland with their daughter. “Having a family holiday, creating our own special memories, was just magic.”
DREAM TEAM
Guests: 22 // Venue: Plantation Island Resort, Fiji // Photography: Nadi Bay Photography Fiji // Gown: Brides of Merivale, Christchurch, New Zealand // Wedding planner: Wendy O’Connell at Our Weddings & Nirtika Maharaj, Raffe Hotels & Resorts
